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…Zum Tode Hin was the highly anticipated sophomore effort for Finsterforst, a seven member outfit hailing from the Schwarzwald, the dark or black forest of Germany. Fans of Moonsorrow, Korpiklaani or Finntroll rejoice because Zum Tode Hin is a seventy minute ride of epic German Pagan Metal combining fierce Moonsorrow-like riffs, the merry party-like atmosphere of old Finntroll and the folky sounds of Korpiklaani due to the hearty use of the accordion. But what makes this a more diverse adventure are the many acoustic moments interspersed quite frequently within the song structures. Featuring a powerful production, the five songs brought forth to the listener all clock in at the 10-20 minute range.

The album kicks things off in grand style with Urquell, a song which promotes I guess you would say a cheery atmosphere by combining the use of the aforementioned accordion along with tin flutes, which all in all meshes very well with the heavy guitar riffs. "Das Grobe Erwachen" begins with a short acoustic intro, then treads into a familiar Moonsorrow-type riff before easing back into a piece which provides a darker atmosphere in terms of its melody. "Seines Gluckes Schmied" picks up both the pace and intensity level with thundering guitars and booming double bass before giving way to a beautiful acoustic passage, then hitting its stride with thick heavy riffs and the fierce snarl of vocalist Marco Schomas, coupled again with the comforting use of accordion and flutes. It provides a soundscape that just screams class! "Sturmes Ernte" is another highlight beginning with an awesome guitar intro, which then segues to a blood boiling scream by Schomas and featuring the superb and catchy twin guitar attack of Simon Schillinger and David Schuldis building its way toward a stunning climax.

The final song, "Untergang," is an epic 22 minute journey of classic Pagan Metal, a true gem and a perfect closer to a truly great album. With …Zum Tode Hin Finsterforst has carved their name at the top of the summit as one of the premier Viking/Folk Metal bands in the land. Add …Zum Tode Hin as another reason why 2009 has been a stellar year for metal!