Axenstar is a power metal band from Sweden, and they are definitely a solid act. However, while I like the album, it doesn't really rise to the next level of the genre. Still, I am glad to hear bands still playing the power metal style.

It is a shame that the metal scene that gets any mainstream press in the US is such a narrow sampling of what is out there under the metal banner. Yes, I know there are bands out there. It is just sometimes hard to find them. Which is why I like it when all these bands that I don't know — and there are a lot of them — arrive on my doorstep offering another taste.

Anyway, back to Axenstar. They are a solid metal act that gets down to business and demonstrates the ability to hit the next level. Yet, there is something that I cannot quite put my finger on that does not allow me to register Final Requiem as anything more than good.

There is a great combination of melody and heaviness, driving drums, some nice solos, and an overall catchiness that will get your body in motion. You will find that you want to bang your head and raise the horns, but if you stop for a moment, you may find something lacking.

I think it starts with the vocals of Magnus Winterwild, which leave me underwhelmed. No, his voice is not bad, but at the same time I did not find a lot of variety to it. It was all right down the middle and just did not really step to the front and hold my attention. On the other hand, the guitar interplay between Winterwild and newcomer Joakim Jonsson is very good. The two are in synch and offer up some nice riffs and runs. Likewise, drummer Thomas Ohlsson is solid with quick, perfectly timed double bass and fills that will keep you coming back for more.