In the new “post-covid” era I have been hearing some awesome cuts coming from all kinds of artists. It makes me wonder how many took advantage of the downtime to hone skills and really dig into some songwriting.

The cut I’m checking today brought that idea up again. Devil’s Bell (Napalm) the new release from Norway’s Audrey Horne – their seventh overall – is a heavy metal roller-coaster. From soaring guitars to rolling drums, and amazing vocals the energy on this new album is non-stop.

 

If you are a fan of classic US power metal, you will not be disappointed. The guitar work really stands out with awesome harmonies, meandering runs and super tight riffage. The onslaught is real, and the flow is clear from the get-go. I really enjoyed how “fresh” this album felt to the ear.

This is a band that is in control of every aspect of the cut leaving nothing to chance. I also really dig their ability to take the foot off the gas and groove on a killer melody before stomping it again, driving the jam home, and delivering on the promise of some killer metal. Very tasty.

Buy the album here: https://www.napalmrecordsamerica.com/audreyhorne

8 / 10

TORBJORN SOLGARD