MASQUERAGE – Backstabber (2013)

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Just released in Europe, “Backstabber” is the third album by rockers MASQUERAGE but the first to be distributed outside their native Finland, as the group has signed a deal with new label Studio 57.

According to the press release, Masquerage’s style is Melodic Metal and traditional Hard Rock with a touch of Power, and this is a befitting description but I think in their sound there’s also even more beyond.
The music in “Backstabber” can be compared at some point with the melodic side of compatriots Sonata Artica, British rockers Balance Of Power and Thereshold in some of their progressive leanings, but at the same time with the hard rocking attack of Pretty Maids, TNT and Savatage.
Each song incorporates elements of both styles, from powerful double bass drumming and killer twin-guitar riffs to stimulating soloing, anthemic choruses and profuse keys injections. The keyboards play an important role in the band’s delivery, as Mika Maunus cleverly knows how to employ his fills in the right place without soften the sound, on the contrary, adding muscle to the melodies.

Every song infectious, unique and a truly ‘traditional melodic metal / hard’ sonic celebration. You will feel quite empowered as you sing along to these well-written canticles, as you begin to feel better about living your life because you find uplifting, thought-provoking lyrics as well.
But basically, the charm in “Backstabber” is the music (and musicianship) cropping out from these melodic songs.
Opener “Remission” blends the musicality of Balance Of Power with some TEN epicness, title track “Backstabber” is heavier in the old fashioned way, and the ultra-catchy “When The World Comes Closer” is really melodic over its sharp riff and keyboard line akin Norwegians TNT first albums.
That first triad of tracks adequately paint the picture of Masquerage’s style, and a damn fine one I assure you.
All are interesting, as the groovy “Another Sleepless Night”, the rush of “Rubber Band Accelerators”, the eighties Queensryche-influenced “The Beach Lion” or the impassioned romantic reflection of “Dance With Me”, a moonlight timed masquerade ballad.

Masquerage and their international debut “Backstabber” are a pleasantly surprise from the cold Southern Bothnia of Finland.
Effective songs, great playing, solid singer (a bit accented) and excellent production where everything sounds earthly clean, not plastic and tired as many recent releases of the genre.
Talking about genres, Masquerage efficiently mixes traditional Melodic Metal and Hard Rock with ease, never sounding forced but natural and distinctive.
Very Recommended.

01 – Remission
02 – Backstabber
03 – When The World Comes Closer
04 – Another Sleepless Night
05 – Rubber Band Accelerators
06 – The Roles We Play
07 – The Beach Lion
08 – Going Home
09 – Dance With Me
10 – Talking To Me
11 – All The Heroes
12 – When The Angels Left

Kimmo Perämäki – Vocals, Guitars
Kari Lavila – Guitars
Mika Maunus – Keyboards
Mikael Kontolampi – Bass
Marko Ylä-Häkkinen – Drums

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