Norther

Mirror of Madness (Century Media)
by Martin Popoff

Oft considered a Children of Bodom clone, Norther actually don’t have their act together like the frosty, unit-shifting Finns. The vocals of Petri Lindroos are tiring and extreme, and too far back in the mix to matter, the keyboards too atmospheric and non-bold, and the songs too relaxed and power metal-like. But the worst part is the absolutely treble-frantic production, which scratches at my ears until I gotta turn it off.

I dunno, I’m finding this derivative, and kind of aimless and timid at the attempt, those wishy-washy keyboards serving as a metaphor for the lack of purpose here, and likely, the lack of excitement or feelings of discovery on the part of potential listeners, the audience for this kind of thing being very demanding and knowledgeable indeed. Love the cover and the booklet though.
(2323 W. El Segundo Blvd. Hawthorne, CA 90250)