Some years ago I was talking to a mate of mine about music and knowing about my love for METAL CHURCH he asked me if I had even heard the Swedish band WOLF. I had to admit I hadn't, so I took it up to go out and explore. And to my pleasant surprise I had to give my mate his due, he nailed the sound of these Swedes in one go. What he failed to mentioned though, is how the voice of Niklas Stalvind has its own glow, plus a big chunk of Mike Howe (METAL CHURCH) and a hint of Biff Byford (SAXON). All this together makes WOLF carry a sound that is their own. Very distinguishable, distinctive and easy to recognise.

It resulted in me buying five albums at once at a record fair. A feat that I have never regretted, as I found out that the music is far above par, has enough quality and diversity to keep the listener in general and more specifically, me, very interested. Result of it all is that it has turned me into a bit of a fan. So, when the possibility arose to review their latest album "Shadowland" I nearly jumped at the chance.

And to make it quite clear upfront: WOLF does not disappoint on "Shadowland". On the contrary, once you get into the rhythm you realise that these guys have surpassed themselves this time. The songs are all of a very high standard, the music is superb, but most importantly, it has a natural flow that comes with choosing the right order of it all for the album. And the production is flawless. The latter took some time to come through, though, as at first I had taken up the notion that it was all just a bit subdued in comparison to their former albums.

But, like I said, once I had listened more often I realised that my initial insight was wrong, and that this is exactly how WOLF should sound on "Shadowland". The only thing that arises then is the issue of trying to point out which are the best songs on the album. I have found it impossible to do so, as they all seem to be made to merge into each other, without them ever being similar. And that in itself is a very commendable trait for allowing me the opportunity to type that "Shadowland" is one hell of a great album.