Swedish band Astral Kingdom was formed in 2003 and in 2006 they released a 3 song demo CD called “Power Metal through the Universe”. They are now back with another demo titled “Into the Fire” and this time around we get 4 songs of Melodic Power Metal.

Their music reminds me a tad of bands like Axenstar and Insania and their music is quite good and yet I miss something. The 4 songs are well played and everything but I miss some more POWER… the 4 songs are a tad too polished in my opinion… and again this 4 track demo wins a little with every spin. But a bit more crunch could do the songs good… I think.

Astral Kingdom has this ability to write catchy songs with catchy hooks but I have the feeling that I’ve heard it all before. But… well… I’m a sucker for this kind of music so I swallow this release with pleasure.

The production is good…but crunchier guitars on the next release, please… but the song writing capabilities and the musicianship promise much more to come in the future.

One thing is for sure… I will follow them closely to see and hear what they can come up with next time. So... check this band out if you’re into polished, Melodic Power Metal.