Those who have listened to Grand Magus's trajectory since their self-titled album will not be shocked to know that the band's sound has progressed even more with "Hammer of the North." That self titled album was straight up stoner rock, sophomore release "Monument" was more doom-oriented, and "Wolf's Return" presented a band that was still presenting it's doom roots loud and clear, but was also embracing a more traditional metal direction, influenced by the likes of Dio-era Sabbath, Maiden, Priest, etc. Follow up "Iron Will" seemed a tad underdeveloped, but that was probably just do to the towering majesty of "Wolf's Return." Now "Hammer of the North" presents Grand Magus as a band fully transitioned to a traditional metal sound. It's very much like "Killing Machine/Hellbent for Leather" era Judas Priest crossed with "The Mob Rules" era Black Sabbath with vocals reminiscent of a young David Coverdale.
Songs like "Black Sails," "I, the Jury," and "Lord of Lies" are straight-up, denim and leather classics. Good stuff for those metalheads still looking for this generation's Maiden or Priest.