Tag Archives: Abba

ALBUM REVIEW: Amberian Dawn – Temptation’s Gates

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Replacing an established singer is always a challenge. Some go too far off track while others opt to play safe, occasionally even trying to mimic their predecessor. Thankfully, there are no such issues with Finnish symphonic metal act Amberian Dawn as Swedish/English vocalist Nicole Willerton stamps her authority on the band’s ninth album, Temptation’s Gates (Napalm Records), adding her own distinctive style but without falling into any hidden traps. It does help that previous singer Capri (aka Päivi Virkkunen) wasn’t the band’s first vocalist herself, but fourteen years is still a lengthy period of time to enjoy the adoration of loyal fans. Continue reading →


ALBUM REVIEW: Helloween – Giants And Monsters

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Incorporating all three singers from their long and storied history has proved to be an extremely successful venture for German power metal pioneers Helloween. The band’s eponymously titled previous album yielded great results using this formula so continuing down the same path is a no-brainer for now. So, with egos firmly in check, all seven members (now just two away from being a power metal Slipknot) appear to be having an absolute blast. But most importantly, the fans are too. Continue reading →


ALBUM REVIEW: Lucifer – Lucifer V

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In the beginning … there was Lucifer! And now this fifth full-length outing for the “occult metal” outfit proves to be a thoroughly satisfying, good ol’ heavy rock ’n’ roll album which, at its very best – the outstanding “Slow Dance In A Crypt” – can be downright beautiful and utterly beguiling.

With song-writing nous, all-round playing chops and excellent production, including a superb, crunchy guitar sound, Lucifer V (Nuclear Blast Records) has at its heart the clean, clear, commanding voice of Johanna Platow Andersson. Continue reading →