Volster - 'Arise'

(Rock Of Angels Records)

Volster’s second album ‘Arise’ showcases a mixed bag of influences while surprisingly maintaining a cohesive sound and album flow. At it’s core it is a melodic hard rock record, but it’s not one I would recommend to that genre’s fanbase in general as this isn’t stereotypical of the genre, this is more Theory of a Deadman than Tyketto!

It is extremely dark in tone, very modern and owes more to classic metal bands of the seventies than the glamourous rock of the eighties which many associate the melodic hard rock label with. I’d push this album more towards modern rock fans who like a strong sense of melody people who cite bands like Shinedown and Volbeat as favourites. The down tuned and fuzzy guitars show elements of grunge and alternative rock present in their song writing. You can hear other types of music influencing their writing and based on what I’ve already stated you may be surprised to hear me say there’s a touch of Harem Scarem about Volster, but you’d be less surprised by the Nickelback and Creed comparisons I throw your way.

‘Arise’ is a little too one dimensional for me, it’s an ok album and there are some strong tracks like ‘Gravity’ that mark this as a worthwhile listen but it’s not an album I find myself wanting to rave about. I can’t pick many fault’s with ‘Arise’ with the musicianship been impeccable and a strong production showcases the songs in a strong light. The songs though on the whole are uninspiring, easy to forget and a touch middle of the road. If you don’t enjoy this style of music then you won’t get Volster, but I suspect modern rock fans will find plenty to enjoy here even if themselves wished the album was more diverse as some tracks can blend into one another.

If you like your Melodic Hard Rock darker than the norm with a strong modern strut about it, then ‘Arise’ is worth a listen, just keep expectations low and enjoy it for what it is. Volster are a good solid band but with this release they are not going to set the world alight.

5/10

Essential Track - 'Gravity'

Review by Woody