The Hunter
Prey
(Mausoleum)
Despite the label, this is not some death metal onslaught; instead its a rather good hard rock album. There are 12 tracks; 2 of which are different versions of the song 'Beside Me' a rather good power ballad. The m/f combo version works well with the song delivering an interesting call and return. Despite the record bumf calling this melodic metal, it is far more hard rock than anything metallic, althought 'Fire & Flame' comes close to metal, ditto 'Coming Home'. That is not to say that these guys, who signed their contract in elk blood, do not produce the goods. Soaring guitars and incredibly tight playing abound. It is not wonder their drummer plays in Malmsteen's and Jack Frost's touring band. Would that Malmsteen manage to put out anything this good these days. Prey could be seen as the new Rising Force, without the over-wraught solos. If you are interested in some new Scandi hard rock then this lot could be just the ticket. Come on, give it a try, you certainly won't regret it.
Rating: 4/5
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