Nighthawk’s Prowler (Mighty Music) is a fun romp through some good old-fashioned rock and roll. Prowler has the feel of a classic album while being firmly new. Bjorn “Speed” Strid’s (Soilwork, At The Movies) vocals are immaculate, the guitars are blistering, and the riffs are “classic”. ‘Running Wild’ is the second track on the album and it takes me back to the gritty eighties. It evokes black Trans Ams being driven by fluffy-haired gents with sweet ‘taches. ‘Running Wild’ has a distinct sound that blends elements of hard rock and blues rock. The song has a great keyboard riff and melodic, storytelling lyrics.
The third song, ‘Action’, straddles the verse between a Miami Vice chase and shoot-out scene and a Rocky training montage. There is something deliciously nostalgic about Robert Majd’s guitar sound. Coupled with Jon Lonnmyr on keyboards, ‘Action’ is a wicked good listen.
The most likable thing about Prowler is the heaviness of the sound of the music. The guitars are clean, the riffs are powerful and there is an intensity to Nighthawk’s performance. Nighthawk boasts catchy melodies and infectious grooves, with a strong emphasis on rhythm and driving beats. Prowler effortlessly emphasizes a seamless blend of guitars and keyboards. ‘Free Your Mind’ is a quintessential rock song. Both the guitars and keyboards are punchy yet clean and melodic. There is a sense of urgency in this track that is full of energy and pure rock power.
Nighthawk throws in two cover songs, one by Kiss and one by Bruce Springsteen. ‘God of Thunder’ and ‘Cover Me’ are decent covers, with ‘Cover Me’ having a bit more swagger. Speaking of swagger, ‘Burn the Night’ has it in spades. There is a drum and bass guitar breakdown in the last third of the song that is wicked groovy! The song gets the blood pumping; it just makes the listener happy. So much of Nighthawk’s Prowler is infectious and fun and bright and crisp and clean. Prowler is aural happiness.
Buy the album here:
https://targetgroup.bandcamp.com/album/prowler
8 / 10
VICTORIA ANDERSON