The Sacred Talisman

The Sacred Talisman is Nocturnal Rites' third album, on which they balanced drive with clear-toned choruses to show the exhilaration of Nordic power metal. Drummer Owe Lingvall and keyboardist Mattias Bernhardsson join, adding depth to the sound. For vocalist Anders Zackrisson, it became his last album with the band. It was recorded at Tonteknik Studio in their hometown of Umeå. Zackrisson would leave after this, with Jonny Lindkvist brought in as his replacement. Rousing, flamboyant songs like "Destiny Calls," "Ride On" and "Glorious" line up. Soaring vocals and melodies woven by the two guitars color the whole record. It entered the Japanese charts at No. 83, widening the band's international footing. Right after its release, they toured Europe with the likes of Nevermore. A record concentrating the stylistic beauty of Nordic power metal. Between the racing songs, Lingvall's drums and Bernhardsson's keyboards add depth. A rousing, flamboyant record that fittingly closes the Zackrisson era.