RECREATION DAY

3.5 stars. For me this a step down from the excellent "In Search Of Truth" but better than "The Inner Circle". Actually it's kind of disappointing that from "In Search Of Truth" up to their latest release "Monday Morning Apocalypse" there seems to be a downward slope in the quality of music. This record is dark and heavy while still being quite melodic. I like it but there are several songs that just don't do it for me. I do like the emotional component that these guys bring to the table though.

"The Great Deceiver" is dark and heavy with a muddied sound. This one I don't really like a lot. "End Of Your Days" is better, especially the synth work. "As I Lie Here Bleeding" is one of the best songs on this record. It's an uptempo rocker with some fantastic guitar solos. "Recreation Day" is another tremendous tune.The topic is death and how in dealing with it we need to take time off (recreation day). This song has some nice piano, background vocals and blistering guitar solos. "Visions" continues the streak of great songs. This one features relentless drums, some good background synths, some major riffing, as well as tasteful guitar solos.

"I'm Sorry" is a cover of a song that was a hit in Sweden. It features keys and passionate vocals. Well done. "Blinded" is a heavy song with pounding drums, synths, and over the top guitar solos. "Fragments" is another highlight for me. It's a powerful song with ripping guitar solos. It sounds great. "Madness Caught Another Victim" is mainly acoustic guitar and passionate vocals. "Your Darkest Hour" is another incredible sounding tune.The vocals are well done and so are the background synths.The best part is the female vocal melody after 4 minutes. Beautiful. "Unforgivable" is about the Catholic church covering up abuse to children. Obviously a very emotional song. There is lots of crunch in the intro, followed by piano and vocals.This contrast continues."Trilogy of the Damned" is a bonus track and the longest track as well. For me it seems out of place, but it's a good song.

This is dark Swedish Metal that is fairly straight forward and often emotional.