They are unquestionably the Kings Of Scandinavian Melodic Rock.

It has been a long time coming, but we now finally have a new album from Swedish superstars Work Of Art. It has been five years since their last release, and there has been a lot of anticipation and excitement from fans since news of this record broke. The big question I'm sure most will ask is whether it has been worth the wait? The answer is very simple – you bet it has!

I cannot remember an album having a better opening trio of songs than this. 'Misguided Love' gets things underway with a familiar Robert Sall guitar intro before the track blends into a melodic top-down masterpiece. 'Be The Believer' raises the quality even more with some lovely keys throughout and a great Sall solo; it is a tune that will be in your head all day. The hat-trick is completed with the heavier 'Another Night', but it's certainly not short of melody and is immensely catchy.

I have noticed recently that we are hearing more from legendary keyboard player Vince DiCola in Melodic Rock circles. He makes an appearance on 'This Isn't Love' with a superb instrumental segment that wouldn't have been out of place in a 'Rocky' movie. The song is another winner and DiCola's influence supplements it well.
'Gotta Get Out' appears around the halfway point of the record and it's a pure AOR offering that showcases the marvellous vocals of Lars Säfsund, whose performance (along with Sall) is top class throughout the album. 'Come Home' is a slightly darker track which fits in nicely with a great guitar riff and frantic key solo. There are so many highlights on this release that it is hard to pick out a favourite, but 'Scars To Prove It' is another top drawer number that is dripping with melodies and keys – it's a truly majestic anthem. The album closer 'Let Me Dream' has a West Coast feel and it's a fine way to finish what is an absolutely stunning record.

There is so much to enjoy with this album and I would go as far to say it is the band's best release yet. They are unquestionably the Kings Of Scandinavian Melodic Rock; many groups have come and gone trying to take their crown, but Work Of Art have delivered something very special with 'Exhibits'. It is an absolutely essential purchase that will no doubt sit atop many people's Best Of 2019 lists.

Richard Epps