25/08/03

NORTHER / MIRROR OF MADNESS

Norther are a Finnish band with an unusual mix of Thrash, Black Metal vocals and the technical proficiency of a progressive band like Sonata Arctica and Stratovarius.

This may sound a bit of an odd mix but to my ears it works very well indeed, imagine a blend of classic era Helloween with Cradle Of Filth and a bit of Hypocrisy and you have something close to Norther. When the tracks "Unleash Hell" or "Of Darkness And Light" start off you can’t help but get drawn into the brutality and sheer speed and majesty of the songs. The guitars are second to none and pull off some great lead brakes, the keyboards are impressive and supportive but not overwhelming and you get some great vocals similar to Danni of C.O.F., what more could you want?

Other stand out tracks includes; "Cry", "Dead" and "Mirror Of madness", all in all this is a great CD and as such is one of my highlights of 2003.

TOTAL PLAYING TIME = 43 mins + 9 TRAKCS & CD ROM