The unexpected success of Rammstein proves that metal can be a universal language - regardless of the tongue in which its lyrics are sung. Germany's In Extremo not only sing in their native tongue, but they also wear kilts with metal shoulder pads and play instruments crafted by their own hands (including various bagpipes, harps and a indescribable monster called "The Horse").
Sünder ohne Zügel, which means "Unbridled Sinner," is the 4-year-old band's first album to enjoy widespread release in North America, and it's a scorcher. By melding medieval music with heavy metal, bagpipes with electric guitars, and distorted yet clean vocals with folk-inspired yet catchy melodies, In Extremo have found an extreme music niche that not even Rammstein can claim. From opening track, "Wind," to album-closer "Unter Dem Meer," Sünder ohne Zügel takes listeners through a series of complex musical emotions that showcase influences ranging from Corvus Corax to Rob Zombie to Rhapsody to - yes - Rammstein.
In other words, In Extremo present a fine case against Ritchie Blackmore's interpretation of Renaissance metal madness.
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