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KROKUS Hellraiser AFM Records (2006)
The Swiss hard rockers are back, and over 30 years on they’re still churning some decent metal.
A complex history, a myriad of changes, and more line-ups than Scotland Yard (in fact I don’t think there’s any original members left in the bad), this new album stands out because it’s good, it’s obviously Marc Storace, and they’ve cut back on the clichéd boogie they’ve relied on in the past.
Yes the boogie’s still there in typical Krokus fashion on some tracks, it’s just not as bad as previously. The title track has it in an infectious way, where they band do sound a little like AC/DC
But there is some variety here; while on some tracks we get a good touch of Brian Johnson, "Hangman" is solid AOR, while "Angel Of My Dreams" a good strong metal track with a hint of power ballad.
Guitarists Mandy Meyer (returning to the band) and Dominique Favez do a fine job, while the album is augmented by bassist Tony Castell and drummer Stefan Schwarzmann.
Still with blues metal touches, it’s still typically Krokus, with a couple of ballads among the 14 tracks. A heavy nod at trad metal too, with "Spirit OF The Night" heavy touches of Judas Priest and Saxon.
A good return to form. Not quite a classic, but close.
****
Review by Joe Geesin
Interview
Band website
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