The Swedish BLACK ROSE are counting 35 years of career and they certainly know how to give us an album, the 8th full length in a row, that has all those elements that will catch the attention of metalheads everywhere.
The influences from the classic, nostalgic Heavy Metal of the 80’s are obvious, the modern touches as well and the result is an album that balances between melodic Heavy Metal and Hard Rock. They certainly do not reinvent the wheel or present some great musical innovation, but the majority of the 10 songs are compositions that it would be hard to find a metalhead who could claim not to like. From the catchy “Shine” to Mikael Dahlin’s excellent guitar solos on “The Labyrinth Of Me” and “Rebel Soul” or the sweet melodic intro to the power ballad “Heaven’s Gate” which showcases Jacob Sandberg’s vocals, all the songs have something to say.
“The Mirror” is an album worthy of BLACK ROSE who seem to have the ability to write songs that can stick to the memory of the listeners. Besides, already from the second or third round I found myself humming some of the characteristic lyrics of the songs. That in itself is a success! In short, an album that deserves your attention without of course changing your life.
Kostas Boudoukos
8/10
“The Mirror” tracklist:
- Dualities
- Farewell, Misery
- Heavy Metal Angel
- Shine
- The Labyrinth Of Me
- Heaven’s Gate
- Sole Survivor
- Wildfire
- Rebel Soul
- Divine Sign
