H.E.A.T. – H.E.A.T. II

7/10

Eurovision rock is the epithet this band might have to carry with them through their career. Maybe more so here in Sweden. But bear in mind that Eclipse also did appear on that show and they are nowhere near that world today.
H.E.A.T. is making a kind of re-start with this album. “Rock Your Body” as a starter was perfect for that purpose with a chorus that gets stuck in your head instantly and “Dangerous Ground” follows and is a more uptempo song. So if you´re into melodic metal then this is what you need in your life. The comparison with Eclipse is almost like they´re siblings. Opening part of “Victory” might even have some similarities to a Nightwish song but turns out to be the stand out track of the album. More of this please. And with “We are gods” someone might talk anger management with Mr Grönvall, I can easily hear some more heavy band glance with envy on this song. Then after that eruption of a song the band is back on their more normal tracks with the following “Adrenaline”.

Speaking of Eclipse; “One by one” is a track one might think they stole from Eclipse right off. And kept Erik Mårtenssons vocals on the released version. Melodic rock/metal is accused of being lame and sounding the same with weak songs and melodies. But we need to declare that it was back in the80´s and maybe desert wandering 90´s. When the cigarette lighters and keyboard drenched background made the music in my ears anyway impossible to listen to. Yes you can hear Boston /REO Speedwagon and such if you want but this is so much better.

In 2000 we have too many bands doing this kind of music that deserves to be heard with open mind.
But it seem like a winning formula if you have a band with a member named Erik. Put him by the microphone and It will work out for you. I can feel it.

Eight songs in, we are served with the first ballad followed by the first song on the album that made me zoom out. “Heaven must have won an angel” is a track that just floats by feels like a filler so ignore that one and skip to “Under the gun”. You get back to the flow of the album in time for the finale. “Rise” leaves you want to hear more of this band and what is next.