SEVEN THORNS / RETURN TO THE PAST (2011)

Seven Thorns is a melodic power metal band that started in 1998 by Lars "Laske" Borup. In 2005, the first single “Artificial Night” was recorded and released. Lars continued with Mik Holm and, in 2008, a new line-up was ready. "Forest Majesty", the first single from the up-coming album, was recorded over New Year 2008/2009 and was released in March 2009. Nowadays, the band is back with it's new release "Return To The Past".


The new album features some really impressive epic choruses, nice arrangements and blistering solos! Many of the keyboard parts were played by the very skilled Mikkel Henderson (Fate, Evil Masquerade). The man behind the mastering of the album is the legendary Tommy Hansen. Also, in this album we have the guest appearance of the At Vance's guitarist Olaf Lenk who plays some leads on the song "Liberty". By reading the deeply inspiring lyrics on the album, you will reveal a distinct theme throughout the songs, regardless of whether about shattering a mirror, leaving the planet or just plainly fighting for a greater cause – look within yourself, find your inner strength and fight for what you believe in – don’t let other people tell you how to life your live! The lyrics are written based on personal experience which clearly shines through and makes the songs so credible. Due to its mixture of both songs in major and minor keys, fast and slow songs, darker themes and more encourage ones.

"Liberty" which opens the album is pure melodic power metal stuff at its best! It's heavy, it has a nice melody and a huge guitar solo! "End Of The Road" is another fine example of power and melody in a perfect combination! The huge harmonies along with the epic melodies, the passionate vocal lines and the excellent guitar work offering one of the highlights from the new effort. "Through The Mirror" is a very good tune with a catchy chorus while "Freedom Call" moves into a more commercial paths. "Countdown" is a 'speedy' tune and features heavier guitars and Erik Blomkvist's high range vocal lines! "Forest Majesty"  reminds me a bit of Helloween earlier works. It has a really nice harmony and, again, a huge guitar work! "Spread Your Wings" is an overall good tune and "Fires And Storms" is, imo, the weakest song from this album.  The album closes with "Return To The Past" which is typical power metal stuff.  

Overall, this is a very good album. It has some really excellent tunes but, also, a couple of average that don't bother me at all. During the listening of "Return To The Past" I caught myself pushing the repeat button more than twice and that's really a positive thing for me. So, in this release you will find nice melodies, amazing guitar work, passionate performances and a solid production. Check it out!!

HeavyParadise's Rating: 7,5/10

TRACK LIST : 01. Liberty, 02. End Of The Road, 03. Through The Mirror, 04. Freedom Call, 05. Countdown, 06. Forest Majesty, 07. Spread Your Wings, 08. Fires And Storms, 09. Return To The Past