Nubian Rose
was founded in 2011 and they released
their debut album 'Mountain' in 2012.
The band evolves around the charismatic
and powerful vocalist Sofia Lilja,
combined with the talents of the
splendid guitarist Christer Åkerlund.
Nubian Rose's new album is more of
everything in comparison with the previous
album. It’s called 'Mental Revolution'
and is clearly a step up on the quality
ladder. Stronger songs and tighter
guitars, together with Sofia's
magnificent vocal contributions results in a
much higher overall rating from me. New label and
with some small changes in the line-up means Nubian Rose is
back with a magnificent follow-up album. Christer Åkerlund produced the album and
the Swedish producer genius, Tobias
Lindell (HEAT, Europe, Hardcore
Superstar, Avatar, Mustasch), has done
the mixing. The production is clean and
flawless. The drums and guitars are
dominating together with the great
melodies and of course Sofia's strong
vocals. Christer and Sofia’s cooperation
as a songwriting duo has grown and
matured since 'Mountain' and 'Mental
Revolution' is more consistent in the
quality.
First up is a rock crushing
track. 'War', which starts quite and
gentle but changes into a Overkill drum inferno.
A high octane song in the fast pace lane and a great
guitar solo inside. In 'Time Again' the pace is more
mature and fits Sofia much better
actually. This song is more of an
melodic hard rock song and has more
depth and emotions. 'Illuminated Within'
is a joyful track with different shades
and colors and is one of my own favourite songs on the album. The heavy
metal track 'The Eye' is harder and has
stiffer guitars, heavier drums and ultra
high pitch in the vocals. I prefer the
rhythmic and melodic song 'Tough Guys
Don't Dance' with catchy guitars and the
song flirts with the 80's hair rock.
Every other track seems to be harder and
more in the heavy metal genre. 'Break
Out' is probably the strongest song on
the album with fantastic vocals,
dazzling guitars backed by a strong
rhythm section. The cozy song 'Higher'
is also one of the top notch tracks on
the disc. The song fits Sofia like a
hand in a glove and is spiced up with some
delicate guitar candy. 'You Will Never Walk Alone'
is a charming ballad with soaring vocals and
delicate melodies.
Sofia sings higher than ever in '(Taking This) Further' and I'm worried my
speakers will go broke. The album close
with a easy listening track 'All of Your
Love'.
Overall, they are rewarded with
an extremely strong OK from me. Not
masterpiece, but a damn pleasant album
from these Swedes. I can not wait until
I get to see them in Väsby, Stockholm in
July. Going to be really exciting!
Line up:
Sofia Lilja – Vocals
Christer Åkerlund – Lead Guitars
Henric Uhrbom – Bass
Tomas Weijnesjö- Drums
Torbjörn Weijnesjö - Rythm Guitar
Guests:
Joakim Ahlund – Keyboards
Mats Levén – Backing Vocals
Katarina Kammarkör – Choir
