It has taken Swedish rockers Violent Divine a little less than 3 years to produce a follow-up to their self-titled debut. They’ve spent those 3 years touring in support of said first platter, collecting the pieces that make up the 12 new tracks and changing record label (from Chavis to Misty Recordings). But musically they’ve kept things pretty much the same.
So what you get here is another dose of modern day, balls out, big riffed melodic hard rock with 11 of the 12 tunes kicking up some serious dust and only one offering a little breathing space. And while I usually applaud bands that stick to their musical guns (not to mention the fact that I awarded the debut with 5 stars) I wasn’t exactly blown away by what’s on offer upon first listen.
But since KVK insisted I’d give it another spin before passing judgement I offered “In Harm’s Way” the time and chance to grow on me. And there’s indeed more hidden within than was revealed the first time around.
To be honest their aren’t any weak cuts to be found (although the danger of the band starting to sound the same is close at hand at times) but a few tracks do stand head and shoulder above the rest. One song that definitely shows the guys at their best is the first video and single “Blackheart” on which they’ve managed to combine a swingin’ rhythm with a huge guitar riff during the verse while displaying their talent for melody on the chorus.
Other highly enjoyable moments come in the shape of “Love is Divine” that moves beautifully from a more laid back atmosphere to classic Metallica-inspired heavy metal and back, the emotionally charged “End of Times” and closing track “Vampire Empire” whose pounding rhythm will have your head nodding in no time. Quite addictive this particular tune and very much like a member of the undead it creeps upon you only to leave you with a mark you can never shake.
Production duties were handled by former The Poodles guitarist (now with Hammerfall) Pontus Norgren and he has given the whole affair a most powerful sound.
All in all this is a worthy follow-up to the band’s introduction in 2006 and one that will hopefully make the band a household name with more of you out there. (
PS)
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