CD REVIEW: NOTES FROM THE SHADOWS by Astral Doors

NOTES FROM THE SHADOWS 
by Astral Doors 
(Metaville Records)

Hailing from Sweden, Astral Doors return with their seventh studio release, 'Notes From The Shadows'. A melodically powerful recording that is solid front to back. The band is comprised of Patrik Johansson on vocals, Joachim Nordlund on guitar, Ulf Lagerstroem on bass, Johan Lindstedt on drums, and Joakim Roberg on organ. The band deliver a quality of song writing that clearly benefits from Dio/Sabbath influences within a more traditional form of the Heavy Metal genre. Those influences are evident right from the start with, “The Last Temptation of Christ”, a really catchy, up-tempo song that opens the album with a bang. Then there is the power metal mover, "Shadowchaser", with it's bluesy overtones. The other tracks offered like, "Disciples Of The Dragonlord", "Die Alone", "Hoodoo Ceremony" and "In The Name Of Rock", are guaranteed to captivate the listener upon first listen.  'Notes From the Shadows' showcases Astral Doors at their best since ,'Astralism'.  Stellar vocal hooks and classic, driving guitar riffs combine in fine form to put Astral Doors back on the map. I think that any fan of Dio, Black Sabbath, or any other band that is built around strong lead riffs and a great lead singer will consider 'Notes From The Shadows' a worthy addition to their collection. - Highly Recommended
Tony @ The Dedicated Rocker Society/All Access Magazine