Frost and Fire

Cirith Ungol’s first foray into the Cimmerian wastes was a more restrained affair than later barbarian raids, but only in the most basic sense. It’s more indebted to seventies rock and heavy blues, certainly. It’s much weirder — Tim Baker’s scything screech alone makes this stand out. The first of many Michael Whelan Elric paintings they’d use as cover art announces their triumphant arrival. “Frost and Fire” remains one of the band’s calling cards for a reason — it’s a truly magnificent battle hymn, followed immediately by life-affirming anthem “I’m Alive!” The guitar tone on “Edge of a Knife” draws blood.