Skibenæs' soloing paves the way into "Northern Gate" after examples of Joensen's cherished chanting and symphonic vocal techniques; admittedly, their sudden turn to immodest English songs after their focus on Faroese epics leaves the listener feeling a bit nonplussed. "By the Sword in My Hand" is a gratifyingly rhythmical track, but still somewhat inexplicable unless Týr purport to generate some more fist-pumping material for live shows with lyrics that could be comfortably set to Amon Amarth's more brutish homage to Vikings past. Such a decision is seemingly fair enough, abrupt though it may be and though it may leave the more recent marathon-length material of _Land_ null and void.

In a sense, _By the Light of the Northern Star_ delivers more of the same, yet Týr continue to stand widely apart from their heathen colleagues, thanks to longevity in bandmates and Joensen's unparalleled, inspirational vocals. It remains to be seen whether Týr can rekindle the outstanding inventiveness of their youth, but these lovely, august songs absolutely infuse one with nostalgia for the group's earliest days and set _By the Light of the Northern Star_ as an obvious must-have for fans and a fine entry point for others -- it simply lacks the stouthearted sagas of album past.