Few bands doing the whole 'retro-metal' thing seem to really understand the aesthetic of their musical forebears, nor are they willing to get into the really nitty gritty aspects of the genre. Night seem to have no problem with this though, their latest offering, premiering below sees influences from everyone from Cirith Ungol and Manila Road to Bathory and Mercyful Fate. It's reassuring to see a band of their generation who really 'gets it' and wants to spend time working to unpack some of the most dynamic music of the 20th century.
There is something wonderfully evil about what the band does here and their willingness to seep into the occult is delicious. Not a lot of newer groups really bat at Night's level when it comes to sheer execution and Raft Of The World seems like a serious step forward for these Swedes. With massive choruses, unique guitar arrangements and a distinctive timbre it's easy to see why these guys have advanced so quickly within the ranks and why The Sign Records has taken such an interest. Toss in some positively gorgeous cover art and these guys clearly are on their way to becoming major players in the highly competitive modern Scandinavian rock and metal scene.
The band had this to say:
I really think that we pushed ourselves with this one. Our third album 'Raft of the World' has been an exciting process for all members in the band, and I think that you can hear that in the songs. With a new line-up and an approach that's been naturally growing towards a more hard rock-based sound over the years, I think that this album definitely is our best work to date. Do not hesitate on this one!
Stream it here:
