Well, there are times when we must face a new and different reality. In the case of this review, one of the most amazing things we see in Metal is the presence of women in bands. Ok, I know that since THE RUNAWAYS and WARLOCK, things have improved a lot. But in these days that we are living, it's extremely common to see bands with women on their lineups. Let me tell you: some of them are really doing very good works, better than some male bands. One of them is the Hungarian ANN MY GUARD, a quartet that arrives with their second album, "Ourania".

Their musical style can be described as a form of Soft Rock with some musical weight and very good melodies, having aggressiveness in some punctual moments. But this isn't a flaw, rather the opposite: their work is really good due this melodic and catchy orientation. Speaking the truth: they know what they are doing in each moment. You'll find distorted guitars and solid bass and work rhythmical work, but some keyboards and piano parts, some strings as well (played by Minore Quartet), sweet touches done by a flute, and a melodic, almost Pop orientated, vocals. "Ourania" was produced by Gabor Vari at Black Hole Sounds Studio. The sound quality focuses on the clean and melodic aspect of the musical identity of the quartet. But on the distorted and aggressive parts, it sounds so good as well. It's very good, sound clean and aggressive when it's needed.

There's an ethereal and even esoteric feeling that fills "Ourania", and the album is truly good. I truly recommend you to pay attention to the catchy hooks of the album, namely "Asteria" (very good distorted guitars, but the melodies and Pop orientated harmonies turn the song really good), the heavy paced tempos of "Callisto" (adorned with melodies that are easy to assimilate, and a very good work from bass guitar and drums), the grandiose keyboards parts on the introspective "Breathe The Sun" (what lovely vocals), the heavy riffs and bitter weight of "Obsidian Tears" (the contrast between the distorted moments with the catchy chorus and great vocals is amazing) and "Hekate" with its touch of Pop elegance.

They are doing a very good work, indeed. Though their musical formula can mature a bit more, it doesn't mean that "Ourania" isn't good. It is, but the future points to an even better album.

I just can't wait!