Norther - N

There is nothing bad I can say about N, well apart from the inclusion of the NO WAY OUT EP tracks as bonus tracks. This may leave anyone who bought the EP feeling a little hard done by. Other than that, N has all the elements any Norther fan would ask for in an album. From the thrash guitars of opener My Antichrist to the omen style ballad that is Frozen Angel, with its catchy Scandinavian keyboard intro.

Unlike their MDM cohorts, Children of Bodom, Norther have had no need to make up for previous mistakes. They have continually written more of the same, adding bits here and there, and only ever making their music much bigger and better.

This album has seen Kristian (Ranta) being given more of a chance to sing, but the balance is perfect. To Hell being a perfect example of that balance. At points having Petri (Lindroos) and Kristian singing in tandem. It shows how they have become masters of their sound.

The track that follows To Hell has some of the best guitar work on the album. With a lovely melodic solo after the 3 minute mark. Saviour is very epic sounding, with Jukka (Koskinen) adding some beautiful Keyboard/Synth layers.

They are definately setting themselves a place at the top table of Melodic death metal with this album. Why they aren't as well known as Children of Bodom can only be put down to then not getting the breaks Children of Bodom have done. So, If you haven't heard Norther by now, then it's something you should remedy. Soon.

Whether you like sweeping solos (We Rock, Self Righteous f**k), Epic ballads (Frozen Angel) or Thrash guitars (Self Righteous f**k, My Antichrist), this is an album for everyone.

All in all a great album.

It is out now via Century Media.

Official Site: http://www.norther.net/
Merch: http://www.fanzone.fi/norther/