REINXEED: "Majestic"

Rating: 8/10

Liljegren Records 2010

Review by Kimmo Toivonen

In his review of the band's previous album "The Light" Urban W. said that it was "not bad, not bad at all, if you fancy a 50/50 mix of Robbie Valentine and Dragonforce." I haven't heard that album (as I recall), but on the new one the comparison still holds true. At their fastest, Reinxeed offer you the kind of tempos Dragonforce are known for, but on the other hand, they also showcase Valentine-like orchestrated, pompous elements and some catchy melodies.

To be honest, the ultra-fast speed metal tracks of the album might appeal to some, but for me they are the least interesting ones. The band's much better when they slow down a little, take the magnificent "Never Lie", the Freedom Call-like "Happy Metal" anthem "Melody Of Life" or the anthemic "Majestic" for instance. The latter is a fine combination of various influences, a bit of Edguy/Avantasia mixed with the pomp and grandeur of Queen and Robbie Valentine.

The band's main man, vocalist Tommy Johansson reaches some very high notes on the album. I must say that I'm not 100% convinced of his vocals, they sound a little thin at times, but then again, I've never been a huge fan of really high-pitched singers. As for the other performances, you'll find some extremely fast drumming, moody keyboards and skillful guitar work - essential elements in power metal all in place.

"Majestic" is an interesting melodic metal album, thanks to some fine melodies and unorthodox pomp and even pop elements. Had there been more of that "double bass drum delirium" I would have lost interest quite soon. Now the steps off the beaten path kept me listening to the album again and again...

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