In the eighties this Swedish band already released 2 demos, but that was about
it. After a hiatus of 20 years the band started to play live again. Besides
Johnny Hagel, known from Tiamat in the 'Wild Honey period, also Kristian Niemann
(Therion) on guitar became member.
Besides the 2 members I already mentioned, vocalist Anders Engberg, also known from
bands like Lion's Share and 220 Volt is the big trump in this line up. Drummer
Robert Iversen and guitarist Peter Hallgren complete the band.
With Anders
powerful and variable voice he sees to it that every song is a feast for the
ears. His vocals stick perfectly to the doomy heavy metal songs. With a style
that reminds of a mix of Tony Martin and Dio at times he really rules. The music
has heavy riffs in Black Sabbath style and in combination with the vocals and
some very slow parts it reminds of bands like Candlemass and Soltitude Aeturnus.
Together with Peter Hallgren, Kristian Niemann serves one melodic solo after
another. Besides some mid tempo tracks there are some slower ones also and with
"Prayers For a King" even a sort of ballad in Candlemass style. After that a bit
more tempo again and fortunately the songs differ enough to stay interesting and
the threatening sound creates the right atmosphere.
This new album is one of the best doom albums this year and if you are a fan of
the Black Sabbath with Tony Martin and bands that play in the Candlemass style,
you have again a must own album!
