Pain of Salvation - Road Salt One
Wow! Pain of Salvation fans rejoice. This is an album that is both unique, different and surreal at times. Sisters is a personal favorite at the moment. A completely divine song. The rest of the album needs time to grow and expand before anything definite can be said. I'm working on a full review.
 
Rhapsody - Frozen Tears of Angels
I'm happy to say that Rhapsody are getting back in shape after the disappointing Triumph or Agony. A sure buy for all Rhapsody fans. I'm working on a full review.
 
Sabaton - Coat of Arms
The Swedish Men of War are back with a very satisfying album. Yes you guessed it... I'm working on a full review.
 
Avantasia - The Wicked Symphony / Angel of Babylon
Sounds like Tobias has recaptured at least some of the Avantasia magic. It is definitely a step forward since The Scarecrow. An impressive amount of music to get through here. The Wicked Symphony has gotten the most listening time so far and has also made the best impression of the two.
 
Gamma Ray - To The Metal
Pretty good metallic offering with some great songs and some not so great ones. Empathy is an atypical mid tempo opener but a strong song. Especially the ending where the song peaks is a highlight.
The title track marries the beat of Judas Priest with the lyrics of Manowar in a way that is way too unoriginal.
Kiske's guest vocals on All You Need To Know shows how much one voice can alter the atmosphere of a band completely. Kiske's guest vocals on one song makes it sound like a long lost Helloween track but the atmosphere of the chorus doesn't really fit with the rest of the song.
Rise is a personal favorite. Fantastic chorus and a great drive rules the song.
As a long time fan it's just great to hear something new with Gamma Ray.
 
Danger Danger - Revolve
Softer than I expected but very appealing, filled with great melodies. There is a bit of an early Firehouse vibe at work here and several songs stand out immediately.
 
Saviour Machine - Legend Part II
A deeply complex second part of the concept which will confuse many and intrigue few. Those fortunate enough to be intrigued will find years of musical discovery.
 
Asia - Omega
Hey, What a spectacular album.
This is a very pleasant surprise for someone who has never listened to Asia before.
Superb melodic rock. There is an incredible warmth and a great vibe flowing through the album. Asia has just been added to my "Have to find everything by this band"-list
I'm on to find the rest of their back catalogue.
 
Treat - Coup De Grace
Excellent album filled with positive energy. I'm Not Runnin' is a personal favorite closely followed by The War is Over and Paper Tiger. Roar and All in are tagging along close behind. The rest of the songs are strong but don't quite make the same impact. All in all a great album and another one of those that makes me want to check out the band's back catalogue as soon as possible.
 
Cain's Offering - Gather the Faithful
Many months after its release I am still listening to it and it keeps growing. These songs really have a staying power.
 
The Beatles In Mono
This boxset is a small revelation and a great way to rediscover the band.
 
 
CD purchases of the month
The Beatles In Mono
Deep Purple - Burn
Nazareth - Greatest Hits
Manowar - Hell on Earth V (DVD)

Written by Steen
Friday, April 30, 2010