Artist: Leverage 
   Title: Blind Fire
   Label: Frontiers Records

Finnish band Leverage came out of nowhere in 2006, with the release of their debut album Tides.  This album totally bypassed me at the time, although that issue has been quickly rectified, after obtaining a copy of said meisterwork.  Frontiers have reissued Tides with 2 bonus tracks.

'Blind Fire' is a must for fans of high quality melodic metal, Pekka Heino (Brother Firetribe) marks every track with his superior vocal lines, both powerful and melodic throughout.  There’s a high level of maturity in the songwriting, sounding heavier than the debut, but with the melodic approach still evident throughout every song.

'Shadow In The Rain' starts off with a guitar passage reminiscent of John Norum’s sound on early Europe tracks prior to Final Countdown.  A powerful, barn-storming opening to album number 2, the band sounding tight, with a solid rythmn section.

'King Of The Night' is a personal favourite and probably the outstanding track on the album. Great songwriting, big hook and a glorious solo.

'Stormchild' opens with some atmospheric keyboards another fast-paced tune, completing a trio of songs that barely give the listener a chance to catch their breath

'Sentenced' slows things down, Pekka turning in another excellent vocal performance.  Once again some great songwriting on show and another blinding guitar solo

Next up is 'Hellhorn', naff title, although the keyboards try to create an eerie feel at the start. This is very melodic tune with a brash and bold feel.

Once again the keyboards kick off the next song, 'Mr Universe'. The guitar work on this song pulls you in with a lovely hook, the anthemic chorus was made for stadiums, just imagine 10,000 fans singing along to this!

'Don’t Touch The Sun' brings us into ballad territory. Opening with a beautiful piece of electro-acoustic guitar, this is an emotional and powerful song. The albums production shines through on here and Pekka’s soaring vocal lines carry through the chorus.

Then we’re onto 'Run Down The Hill', this is another favourite.  The keyboards creating an atmospheric start, before the guitars kick in and we’re back at the start of the album. The keyboard and guitar duel solo raises this song above the average, great power and hooks.

'Heart Of Darkness' starts off slow but when the guitars and drums kick in, my first thought was Magnum.  This is a big and powerful song with Pekka sounding very much like Bob Catley.

Last song on the album, 'Learn To Live', is another ballad delivering an outstanding performance from Pekka Heino.  This song encapsulates the best elements of Leverage, powerful and soaring guitars and vocals, great songwriting and a big production.

This release is on a par with the debut, and I recommend that if you are looking at buying 'Blind Fire', pick up 'Tides' at the same time, you will not be disappointed.

*Review by Brassy

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