One planet, one human race - A review of Equilibrium's One Folk

I usually don't review singles but Equilibrium's One Folk is a very welcome exception since it includes quite a few interesting ideas. The song has a strong message in favour of unity and against division. The experimental music video that has come along with it underlines this great idea visually as well.

The song starts with some folkloristic elements that bring back the style of the band's early outputs such as Turis Fratyr and Sagas that so many fans are missing dearly. The track soon develops into a contemporary metal song with keyboard sounds and minor electronic elements that rather recall the band's most recent records Renegades and Armageddon. This track basically finds the perfect balance between old and new Equilibrium material. Another great detail is that the song includes excerpts of Stephen Hawking's final message to the world. His inspired message blends in perfectly with the song's purpose.

On the negative side, this single focuses so much on its outstanding message that the musicianship and even songwriting is lacking in several departments. The chugging guitar riffs are everything but impressive and the rhythm section could also be a little bit more powerful. The production is a little bit lifeless and muddy. The track is also lacking a catchy or at least memorable passage. Even after several spins, the song remains difficult to get into and to be remembered.

However, the song's message is far more important than the musicianship here. ''One Folk'' is a decent song but its purpose is far more than that. The idea of unity has become more important than ever in times when people insult one another rather than having civilized discussions.

Final rating: 80%