When it comes to the metal subgenre of melodeath, Wolfheart is one of the best in the category. They balance the dark and heavy riffs with beautiful melodic elements with ease, yet manage to add something fresh and exciting with every release. The band is consistent with album releases (every 2 years on average), so it was a pleasant surprise to see that the band was releasing an EP with some more of the orchestral riff wonderland that was last year’s Draconian Darkness with Draconian Darkness II.
The two new songs continue the album nicely. The first song, “Carnivore,” is a total headbanger with lots of double bass, low whirling guitar riffs, and a short guitar solo. The layered vocals added interesting elements of atmosphere, especially for a song that is 4 and a half minutes long. The second new song, “Forefathers,” has some lovely orchestral portions, strings, and keys. This, while paired with several different styles of screamed vocals, makes this song rather glorious and powerful, perfectly evoking the song’s namesake.
The next 3 songs are different renditions of songs from the full album. The live version of “Burning Sky” is well-produced and has an electrifying stage energy sound. “The Gale (Acoustic)” is taking an already emotional song and making it even more raw and emotive. It’s a lovely new way to hear this song. Lastly, the song “The Grave (Orchestral)” is, as the title says, an orchestral version of the album single. It’s certainly unique to hear this string and choir version of this track; it reminds me of bands such as Septicflesh or Fleshgod Apocalypse, who also often do orchestral versions of their songs. This one has clean production, and the song transferred nicely to a classical instrumental number.
Overall, Wolfheart’s new EP is solid! It’s like adding dessert after the massive main course that was Draconian Darkness. It’s essentially bonus tracks standing on their own, and it’s worth a listen (or two), especially if you’re a fan of songs reimagined and of course, a fan of orchestra-heavy melodeath.
The new Wolfheart EP, Draconian Darkness II was released on September 19, 2025, via Reigning Phoenix Music. Order your copy here.
