When Mulder left the X-Files, it was barely watchable. Thus Ensiferum’s "Mulder" aka Jari Maenpaa departed after 2004's Iron, setting the band creatively adrift ever since. (Perhaps a decision borne by the band's tyrranical deadlines of...well, simply having deadlines.) Ensiferum employ Hollywood score-stages full of strings and angelic computer cloned robo-choirs in a desperate attempt to up their epic cred. Flickering acoustic leads, tired medieval inspired riffs and orchestral ostentation cohabit like a marriage at swordpoint. In lieu of a masters' guiding hand, they're only fit to ape them instead. For fans of Rhapsody, Korpiklaani and Nightwish. Out now through Spinefarm Records.