A great friend of mine posed this question some days ago: "Big Daddy, why in the blazes do you have problems with bands trying to sound as those from the past?" The answer is extremely simple: because the past holds no secrets. What I mean is that one band trying to sound as if we were on the 60s, the 70s or the 80s is something that doesn't makes sense if you can't put some new life and personality into what you're doing. If you have personality, your music will sound great, even with references from the past. But personally, there are just few bands that are taking this path that really deserves applause. The Swedish quintet SVARTANATT is another name that can be an exception in the future, because on their first album, "Svartanatt", they show a good work, but they have a long way to go.

They play a form of Rock that is between the end of the 60s and the beginning of the 70s, raw and dirty, but tender and melodic. Of course it is extremely accessible, and can reach a broader public, using a very good technique on each musical instrument. But the quintet has a long way to go, because they sensation of "I-heard-it-somewhere-before" is truly strong. The sound quality is another point that doesn't help the band. Again, the same mistake: although it's not as crude as many can think, it is a vain try to sound as those bands of the past. Sorry, but we are living in the second decade of the new millennium, not in the 70s, then it could be done in a more modern fashion, with a careful production.

They show some good moments on songs as the raw melodic energy of "Times Are Changing" (good vocals, and tender melodic lines), the hooking "Demon" (showing a fine work from guitars), the introspective harmonies shown on "Nightman" and "Thunderbirds Whispering Wind" (this one with good solos and keyboards parts), the 60s melodic and hooking Rock called "Rocket" can show you how they have potential. If they had a better sound quality, and a more experienced producer, I believe that they will be fine in future years.