Sole Syndicate - 'Into The Flames'

(Scarlet Records)

Swede’s Sole Syndicate are stylistically hard to pigeon hole, the broadest genre to say they fall into is Heavy Rock. At times though they do roam into Metal, certainly dip their toe in Symphonic rock but sometimes sound a little Alt Rock or more accurately modern American Rock. So don’t be surprised if I mention bands with very different genre labels or indeed have very little to do with one another.

My first impression of the album was extremely positive and I instantly liked what these guys deliver. I think this album is a real grower though and I suspect many of these songs will dig deeper into my consciousness, as after repeated listens I found myself been drawn to different songs each time.

I found ‘Into The Flames’ to be extremely commercial and highly melodic although their sound may not seem radio friendly, melodies and hooks are at the forefront of every song. This is highlighted in the huge choruses that by and large are borderline anthemic. The guitar riffs are nice and crunchy, Nickleback would be jealous! When it comes too comparisons, I only hear Nickleback in some of the guitar work, which makes me think of bands like Creed and Alterbridge – but given the symphonic edge of the band I’m getting hints of Queensryche.

Like I’ve previously mentioned the band are hard to define in one easy label, they have a sound very much their own because they blend styles and this helps them appeal to various genre fans. The commercial edge makes them slip into to more mainstream rock fans view, but they also have enough about them to appeal to fans of Symphonic and heavier edged rock bands.

I was very impressed with ‘Into The Flames’ and will definitely be keeping an eye on these guys in the future and also checking out their past. Their songs are very memorable with potent choruses that bring you back for more. One of my main highlights is power ballad ‘Shadow Of My Love’ which had a strong impact and an indelible chorus.

Sole Syndicate are a band I’d definitely recommend checking out especially if you’re looking for something with a bit of depth to it and something that a hardcore music fan can dig their teeth into with repeated listens. ‘Into The Flames’ is a quality heavy rock album well worth anyone’s time checking out!

7/10

Essential Track - 'Shadow Of My Love'

Review by Woody