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ROYAL HUNT - Paper Blood |
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Posted: 8/4/05Reviewed by: Dirt Category: Progressive / Symphonic Metal Released: 6/6/05 (Europe) - 7/19/05 (USA) Label URL: www.frontiers.it (Europe) www.magnacarta.net (USA) Artist URL: www.royalhunt.com | |
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Much like Rising Force is centered around guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen, Royal Hunt is centered around keyboardist Andre Andersen. Rising Force has certainly went through its share of supporting musicians over the years and so has Royal Hunt. Several years ago, John West replaced DC Cooper in Royal Hunt. Since 2003's Eyewitness, bassist Steen Morgensen and guitarist Jacob Kjaer exited the fold. Guitarist Marcus Jidell was brought on board, and former drummer Kenneth Olsen has returned, but there is no mention of a replacement bassist.
Musically, Royal Hunt continue with their well-known mix of keyboard driven progressive/symphonic metal. Paper Blood fits in nicely with the rest of the band's catalog, but depending on how you look at it, Paper Blood is either more of the same or it's what Royal Hunt does best. I guess the perception depends on whether you like the band's style or not.
Royal Hunt is very impressive musically. Andre Andersen's keys deliver bright, high notes that are very upfront in the mix. Jidell's guitar gets time in the spotlight too, whether it's during the ballad "Season's Change" or the aggressive title track. He really shines on "Twice Around The World," an instrumental track. West's strong, melodic pipes are perfect for this style of music.
The Bloody Truth: I don't believe Royal Hunt has ever delivered a bad album. Paper Blood is as good as the band's previous work, but critically, I think their style does get somewhat repetitious from album to album. This aside, technically, the band is brilliant, and few bands have their chops. Fans of the progressive and symphonic genre, give these guys a listen. Please note: the US version on Magna Carta features two bonus tracks - "Edge Of The World" and "Game Of Fear."
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