The Swedish heavy metal band Astral Doors return with their sixth release, a concept piece of sorts titled Jerusalem. These guys have always been really solid and probably haven't received the credit they've deserved, but this latest is another enjoyable platter of classic metal, led by the commanding vocal pipes of Nils Patrik Johansson.
With Johansson's vocal style, it's hard not to compare the music of Astral Doors to classic Rainbow and Dio. At times he's a dead ringer for the late Ronnie James Dio, though he has more of a constant snarl at times. The twin guitar attack of Joakim Roberg & Joachim Nordlund lay down plenty of massive crunch and blazing solos throughout Jerusalem, especially on the anthems "Child of Rock 'n' Roll", "Seventh Crusade", "Operation Freedom", and the dramatic "Pearl Harbor". Much of what you'll hear on this CD is catchy yet quite heavy at times, never approaching the gallop of standard power metal nor approaching the complexity of progressive metal, just good old fashioned classic metal. The addition of synths and organ in spots from Roberg add that vintage Rainbow feel, especially on "Babylon Rise", and the doomy "Lost Crucifix" brings to mind Dio era Black Sabbath. For all out texture and poweful atmosphere, you can't beat "The Battle Of Jacob's Ford", a powerful and quite emotional track that has perhaps Johansson's best vocal on the CD as well as some massive riffing.
Jerusalem is another fine release from this criminally underrated heavy metal band. If you haven't yet given Astral Doors a try, I suggest you start with this one and work your way back. You won't be disappointed.
Track Listing
1. Seventh Crusade
2. With A Stranger's Eye
3. Child Of Rock 'n' Roll
4. Pearl Harbor
5. Lost Crucifix
6. Babylon Rise
7. Suicide Rime
8. The Battle Of Jacob's Ford
9. Operation Freedom
10. The Day After Yesterday
11. Jerusalem
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