A stunning record.

Formed in Athens, Greece, in 2006, DangerAngel's first two albums were solid if unspectacular releases, but 'All The King's Horses', their first album for the MelodicRock Records label, is a major leap forward.

A change in vocalist has played a significant part in this improvement, with Brazilian BJ joining in 2014, following a stint touring in Jeff Scott Soto's band as guitarist/keyboardist and backing vocalist. The range BJ possesses has enabled DA to push the boundaries of their music like never before, resulting in an album that is much heavier, darker and contemporary sounding than their previous output, while the quality of the musicianship has advanced to complement the new style perfectly, particularly Ethan Snow's wondrous guitar work. The heavier and contemporary Melodic Metal direction bears more than a passing resemblance to the style Pretty Maids have taken since their 'Pandemonium' resurgence as the Danish superstars also have the knack of blending powerful riffs and rhythms with soaring melodies; the occasional shouted vocal line also reminds me of my Sheffield buddies, the awesome C.O.P. UK.

Opener 'To Kill A Saint' and the searing 'Will You Follow' drift towards double-time Power Metal territory, yet contain immense choruses, while the infinitely darker 'Dia De Los Muertos', 'Dead In The Water', Hollow Men' and the excellent 'Devil's Waltz' may have a contemporary approach, but neatly alternate between moody verses and powerfully uplifting choruses. 'Call My Name' and 'How About Right Now' are probably the most initially rewarding, with more of a melodic, "radio-friendly" direction. The centrepiece of the album is the wonderful seven-minute power ballad 'All The Kings Horses', even though it does owe an enormous debt of gratitude to Alter Bridge's 'Blackbird'.

I can't say I'm overly enamoured by the Linkin Park-esque rap sections during 'Best Of Me' and I feel that some of the keyboard textures used will date the album fairly quickly, but those slight negatives definitely do not dampen my enthusiasm for what is a stunning record.

Ant Heeks