"Kastalija is an album i never expected to like but was immediately blown away by it’s originality and feel good atmosphere. If you are a fan of folk metal then you will lap Kastalija up. If you are not a fan of this genre then give it a try, you will not be disappointed!" (10 / 10 Planet Mosh) "Avven offer a nice flux to typical folk metal styles, so if you're looking for something different, then you shouldn't go wrong with 'Kastalija'. It's just so catchy, filled with good vibes, and simply put: It rocks!" (7,5 / 10 Metal Archives) "Overall Avven impress on every level. They are obviously in thrall to the wonderful music they make and their spirit is truly addictive. ‘Kastalija’ is a heart-felt, intelligent and innovative addition to the folk-metal canon. Where some bands are content to simply fling a violin over the top of tired metal riffs, Avven develop folk structures and then augment them with blazing guitars with the result that the music feels genuine, passionate and exciting. The imagery conjured by the music, the beauty and the power of the melodies and the memorable nature of the songs (none of which outstay their welcome) all combine to make this a special record indeed and if you’re a fan of rousing, spirited music then this is certainly for you." (8 / 10 Sonica Buse) "It’s evident that the band has been influenced by German folk rock heavyweights like In Extremo, Subway to Sally, and Saltatio Mortis, as well as by symphonic metal superstars Nightwish; the combination of these styles, topped off with lyrics that are almost exclusively in Slovenian, makes for an energetic, exciting hybrid that will have even the stodgiest folk metal purists clapping along." (8 / 10 metal-exposure)