Feu Gregeois mean "Greek fire", a burning-liquid weapon which was used by Byzantine Empire in their Crusades. The band Feu Gregeois hail from Southern France. The lyrics deal with the Crusades, and are sung in English, Latin and French. 'Francorum Regnum Hierosolymorum' is the sophomore demo from this young band, who have a very clear objective.

In their music, Feu Gregeois mix dark orchestrated pieces with dark extreme metal. With 'Fulfillment' it is clear, that the band aren't a bunch of jokers, as the keyboards are pretty competent, partly very competent (e.g. the ending of 'Montgisard', the song which is the definite highlight of this demonstration). Still, sometimes it gets a bit tacky, like during Mid-Eastern 'Praeludium Desastrum'. Sadly the metal music side sounds weaker. Programmed drums can be blamed for this partly, as well as powerless general sound. The metal music side consists of death metal and black metal, both being very simplistic in their form, and this kind of reminds me of old Samael. But for the band's credit, I have to say they have created a monster that is closer to a behemoth than a wasp, as the alloy of orchestrated stuff and metal music really does work, but hopefully they can import a bit more colourful metal music side next time. Vocals could be much better, as they are weak for a big part and the lyrics are left incomprehensible. There are different growls utilized, to bring some variety in.

With its weaknesses, 'Francorum Regnum Hierosolymorum' is still an interesting piece of metal music, and quite different from any prevailing trends. Those who like medieval soundtracks and simplistic death/black metal should check out this band, who are still taking their first steps.

Reviewed by Lane
12/17/2007 17:02