Five years on since their last album 'Retoxed' House Of Shakira are back. The band's line-up has changed radically as well with former Mind's Eye vocalist Andreas Novak joining the band, along with Basse Blyberg and Martin Larsson on bass and drums. These new members join the guitar duo of Mats Hallstensson and Anders Lundström.

The band have kept the classic House Of Shakira sound and with Novak's vocals added a harder edge to some of the songs, none more so than opener 'Brick Wall Falling'. 'Zodiac Maniac' gives the band a chance to show of their vocal harmonies and proves why this band are one of the best bands at this sort of melodic hard rock. The sing-a-long rocker 'Fractions In Love' and 'Carry My Load' highlight what a great vocalist Andreas Novak is. With songs this catchy the band can't fail!

'Midnight Hunger' allows the guitarists their chance to shine, one of the heaviest songs on the album. At the other end of the scale there is only one ballad, 'Lost In Transition'.


They have come back stronger with the new members and an album that I am sure will make a few year end best of lists. Fans of the band are in for a treat and if you have never tried this band before, what are you waiting for?

Jason Ritchie