PAPER BLOOD

Well, you know I love Royal Hunt and I did some five stars rating to their previous albums. I was amazed by the quality of music they deliver especially in putting together the keyboard sounds by Andre Andersen in inventive way throughout the stream of power metal music. Not only that, their music sparks an energy to stand straight overcoming ever increasing life challenges through our day-to-day walks of life. As far as this album concern, I can motivate myself in the morning before embarking for work by playing the opening track "Break Your Chains" in loud volume. I am sure that I will always be motivated and my spirit is rising up as the song flows. It's enough for me to go to work with high spirit. The tagline melody sung by John West is really melodic, catchy and it has many unpredictable maneuvers as he sings along. The chorus part is something that Royal Hunt has as their trademark. Not to mention the pulsating keyboard work by Andersen that has become unique characteristic of any Royal Hunt music.

The second track "Not My Kind" is a bit complex with much more aggressive guitar work in riffs or as melody. When this is combined with keyboard in fast speed tempo, it becomes a great enjoyment. Throughout this album John West sings confidently and energetically compared to his debut with the band on "Fear" album. This time it's hard to differentiate with previous lead singer DC Cooper (whom the solo album I love it as well). "Memory Lane" starts nicely with stunning keyboard solo in classical music style. When the music enters with drums, the style of music is different and this time is much symphonic with Dream-Theater-like guitar riffs. "Never Give Up" is a logical follow-up of previous track.

The album experiences break under fifth track as the style has changed in slower and softer style in "Seven Days" but maintaining main rhythm section, typical Royal Hunt music. "SK 983" blasts the music off with another fast tempo music with guitar riffs and long keyboard solo. The guitar solo in the middle of the track intertwined with keyboard are really good. The rest of the tracks are good ones with excellent instrumental closing at album's end "Twice Around The World".

I consider this album is very solid in composition with catchy tagline melody in every single song it offers. I recommend those of you who like melodic power metal to have this album. Peace on earth and mercy mild. Keep on proggin' ..!