Surprisingly effective trad metal with a vaguely European vibe, despite hailing from Philadelphia. Sumerlands features vocalist Phil Swanson -who has had stints with numerous bands, including Hour Of 13 and Connecticut's awesome Nightbitch- plus guitarist Arthur Rizk (Eternal Champion, War Hungry). These eight songs are loaded with simple but well-constructed riffs and melodies, bolstered but rich, mostly low-register vocals and lots of elegant lead work, all recorded richly and clearly. It's pretty traditional, but not totally imitative, with just enough vaguely Zeppelin-esque inventiveness to keep it interesting. A very promising start!