Second album by this band and their debut album 2009's 'Infinite Stargaze' received many rave reviews and year end 'best of' nominations. The band has a new rhythm section in drummer Perra Johansson and bass player Anders Lindmark (ex-Dalton/RAW). Vocalist Niklas Swedentrop is still there and he is one of the better emerging hard rock vocalists.

This album is quite timely as Whitesnake have a new album out and Coldspell have a hint of that band in their mix along with Treat, Dalton and Gotthard.

Songs like 'Heroes' and 'Fate' (with Europe's Ian Haughland guesting on drums) are big, highly polished hard rock anthems whilst 'The King' takes a slower route musically but is still very satisfying. 'Angel Eyes' and 'Run For Your Life' see the band successfully meld killer guitar riffs with tasty keyboards.

Like their debut, it’s a grower. It doesn’t grab you instantly; you don’t have the Scandi rock soaring melodies as with the band’s Swedish counterparts. One has to give it a few listens before it grabs you, after which you’re hooked.

Good songs, lovely vocals, great guitar work from Michael Larssen, as well as impressive keyboard interludes by Matti Eklund ensure that Coldspell produce another rock solid album.

I doubt you'll be disappointed with this album if you enjoyed their debut and if you like Whitesnake, Treat and Gotthard's brand of hard rock this album is made for your collection.

****

Review by Jason Ritchie
(Additional material: Nick van der Meurlen)