Review by Felix on January 16, 2021.

Desaster never disappoint their followers, they always stick to their guns. This also applies to this EP, though it is not a highlight in Desaster’s discography.

The band wanted to release this EP to have published something similar to Sodom's "Expurse of Sodomy". So much for the theory. But back in 1987, Sodom released three epochal new tracks. By contrast, Desaster skimp on first published tunes. 'Fields of Triumph' appeared on their debut. And as everyone knows, the cover song 'Before the Creation of Time' honors Unleashed. Subject to these conditions, Desaster fought a losing battle in comparison with Tom Angelripper's battalion.

Nevertheless, the title track is a good standard. But on closer examination, this song might be the sole reason for buying this EP. In such circumstances, Desaster should have offered more than decent riffs, a solid chorus and the typical demonic vocals. Somehow the song just feels semi-finished. Perhaps this is due to its short play time of three minutes. So let us focus on the B-Side.

The re-edition of 'Fields of Triumph' might make sense due to the blurred production of the debut. But to be clear, I would have preferred a second new track, even if 'Fields of Triumph' is a further example of Desaster’s finest trademark. They combine a medieval melody with malicious thrash and the result is very impressive - not least because of the powerful production.

Cover songs should be forbidden. Anyway, Desaster have increased the speed of Unleashed's classic and it is still an outstanding song. But first and foremost Unleashed deserve the praise.

One last note: the association with Sodom's legendary EP is emphasized by the simple, timeless design of the cover.

Rating: 7.1 out of 10

Review by Adam M on June 26, 2019.

Amon Amarth have been churning out their epic blend of melodic death metal for a while now.  They had started to be falling into a rut of putting out uninteresting albums compared to their best work.  This album, Beserker I believe is somewhat of a return to form for the band.  The albums With Oden On Our Side and Twilight of the Thunder Gods had this sort of heroic aspect that was mixed with melody to craft a really memorable experience.  I believe this album emulates this style more than their last few albums which have come up a bit short in my opinion. 

Songs like Raven’s Flight have the proper amount of catchiness and impact to become ingrained in your mind and these aspects are more omnipresent than on their previous few releases.  The band performs viking influenced melodic death metal and they have the more traditional aspects of their music in fine form here.  The songs bleed a viking trait that is very welcoming and adds to the music.  It still doesn’t equal their two fine works previously mentioned in this review, but it’s a nice kick back to good times.  You will feel good listening to Amon Amarth’s music and this is a trait that I feel was missing in recent releases.  The  passion is back and Amon Amarth is churning out quality melodic death metal again. 

What could be improved upon?  If the band wants to succeed in the future they could mix things up and attempt to be more progressive.  This will prevent them from becoming stale.  I was satisfied with this disc, but it’s not as good as the best melodic death metal releases I’ve heard this year by Bloodred Hourglass and Black Therapy.  Berserker is still a postive step in the right direction for the band.

Rating: 7.4 out of 10