STORMBURST – III (2023) *HQ*
Formed in 2014, Swedes STORMBURST released two very good albums via AOR Heaven Records. Now with the label ceasing operations, excellent company Pride & Joy Music signed the band for the release of their upcoming third LP, simply titled “III“.
STORMBURST was formed by reputed musicians from the Scandi scene with the intention to make high quality Melodic Hard Rock music without any compromises. Bass player Kent Jansson (Six Feet Under, Keen Hue, Steam) and guitarist Thomas Hansson (Steam, Coastline) started out with singer Lars-Åke “Plåtis” Nilsson (Keen Hue) and to achieve the special sound they were looking for. Keyboardist Peter Östling (Six Feet Under) was sent a demo and pretty much joined immediately.
The band is based in the heartland of Sweden, Dalarna and all members contribute to the songwriting and arrangement process of the stupendous 12 tracks comprised into “III”, quality Melodic Hard with ’80s AOR flavor.
Musically this is a really good blend of melodic hard rock and AOR. Along the way I get to think of bands like Nation and the early phase of Europe, but also German band Frontline – or even a more hungry Bonfire actually. Overall, it is not strange that I mention Germany. Nilsson’s lead voice is perfect for this type of music and in some comes he sounds a bit like Klaus Meine.
All songs are good, but to mention some highlights ”Self Destruction” really moves with a funky hard rock riff, and first track ”Get Up On Your Feet” is catchy and hooky. The guys also handle softer tunes very well, like the semi-ballad ”Lost In Paradise”.
There’s quite a share of organ included, giving some songs a classic feeling. This is always a welcome thing. Add to this a really good production that blends late 70s and 80’s styles and yet it is done in a fresh way that shall be appetizing to the listeners.
Highly Recommended
01 – Get Up On Your Feet
02 – Peace Of Mind
03 – When The Worlds Collide
04 – Wild And Crazy
05 – Higher Power
06 – Lost In Paradise
07 – Rockin’ On The Radio
08 – Make It Through The Night
09 – Hold On
10 – Love That Rock N’ Roll
11 – Self Destruction
12 – Little By Little
Bass – Kent Jansson (Six Feet Under, Keen Hue, Steam)
Guitar – Thomas Hansson (Steam, Coastline)
Vocals – Lars-Ake Nilsson (Keen Hue)
Keyboard – Peter Ostling (Six Feet Under)
Drums – Pelle Hinden (Eternal Of Sweden)
Pre order:
shop.prideandjoy.de/en/home/473-stormburst-iii-cd.html
