This is definitely one of the better demo CD’s I have received. In less than one year, the Swedish trio Ignostic Reign have turned themselves into something I can only regard as label material.

There are definite ties to the Scandinavian black metal scene inasmuch as Dimmu Borgir are lurking in the background.

Think of this as a slightly simpler version of newer Dimmu Borgir and then add a bit of Enslaved and well…Machine Head. In the span of five songs, the Swedes prove that they reach far within the genre of death/black/thrash. They have a cool drive and ideas that suit my musical temper nicely.

Soundwise, improvements can most certainly be made. A proper production and some advice in terms of the drum sound would be in place, but otherwise a band to be watched.

Visit the band’s MySpace for more info.