Not just the tenth Grand Magus full-length, but their first bona fide concept album, Sunraven is a full-bore return to the heavy metal might of Wolf God and Sword Songs, but with an underlying story that adds greater depth to the Swedes’ earthy bombast. Made manifest via a gritty but grandiose production courtesy of the band and co-producer Staffan Karlsson, Sunraven was inspired by the revered Old English epic poem of Beowulf. In true heavy metal style, these nine new songs dive deep into heroic fantasy, but with the same real world resonances that are scorched into the genre’s calloused skin. As showcased on album-opener Skybound, Grand Magus return with more fire in their collective belly than ever before. An album with great diversity and sizzling dynamics, Sunraven is also a testament to the unpretentious power of a balls-out heavy metal band, with nothing but passion for the cause in their hearts. Meanwhile, nothing beats a great story, particularly when it has such a kick-ass soundtrack.