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I knew very little about this Lithuanian act before I got this promo, besides the fact that I had them listed as friends on Myspace. Signed for a long time to Ledo Takas Records, home of Urskumug, Obtest will be distributed worldwide by French label Osmose Productions.

These guys are known for being veteran Pagan Metal musicians. Cyvybės Medis is their brand new release, and it was completely written in their native tongue. The themes covered are ancient mythologies as well as personal views and reflections on the modern world. Musically, we have a well recorded and produced album of mostly upbeat Viking/Pagan Metal. Their music is kicking, a bit catchy and epic. Although not as intense and dark as what I usually listen to, Gyvybės Medis is far from cheesy. On the other hand, I would have wished for something more varied and less on the fast line. Many of the songs are built on the same frame, and I guess the guys played it safe by using a formula that has worked well for them. Very good guitar work can be heard on this disc, with cool solos on every composition. Opener "Rites" contains all the great ingredients mentioned. One will have to wait up until track #7, "The Wolf of Steel" to hear some pleasant acoustic guitars. Closing track, "Hostages", is the only instrumental here, and is where to look for some thrilling guitar playing.

An epic, melodic and well done piece of Pagan/Viking Metal, but lacking variation.