"Astralism" CD by Astral Doors

by Jürgen Tschamler (10.04.2006) Astral Doors were one of the newcomers most taken into account in the last years, that's for sure. Their two excellent records, “Of the son and the father“ and the even better “Evil is forever“ were critically acclaimed. One reason surely was and is singer Patrik Johansson, who with his Dio-similar voice often reminds me of the Dio-era in Rainbow. On their third album, the Swedish six-piece outfit have become far more aggressive and edgier. The guitars appear as if they had come completely under scrutiny - I suppose, producer Peter Tägtgren had his influence here. Also the pace was increased a bit, but what is important: Johansson's vocals has remained the same. 13 tracks bursting for heartblood and class. This is cult! Up-tempo killers, such as “Fire in our house“, “Oliver Twist“, “Vendetta“ or the bombastic “Israel” make you a junkie! You may call the Swedes a tribute to Dio and Rainbow but I give a fuck, for these eguys do an excellent job and will please many old hardrock fans who will love this album. Not to mention the Dio fans, too. Astral Doors will support Blind Guardian on their upcoming European tour. Watch out !!!