Hel

Released in 2019 after a six-year gap following Valkyrja, Hel represents a refinement of Týr's signature sound rather than a departure. The album is named after the Norse goddess of the underworld, and while it maintains the band's penchant for epic, progressive structures, it leans more heavily into the melodic power metal elements than their earlier, more experimental work like Eric the Red. Recorded with a high-fidelity sheen, the production emphasizes the technical interplay between Heri Joensen and Terji Skibenæs's guitars. A notable feature of this specific record is the inclusion of tracks sung in Faroese, such as 'Ragnars kvæði' and 'Álvur kongur,' which utilize traditional 'kvæði' melodies. This integration of authentic North Atlantic folk music into a progressive metal framework remains the band's most distinct contribution to the genre. Critics noted the album's length and complexity, praising its ability to remain accessible through soaring, clean-sung hooks despite the frequent use of odd time signatures.