Sweden is an absolute hive of Hard Rock, Power Metal and just all rounded fantastic musicians. So when I was presented the opportunity to checkout a new (to me) outfit from the country, then I couldn't really turn it down. TAD MOROSE is a 5-piece group with an impressive 30 year history. Their most recent release "March Of The Obsequious" is a ten track album, due for release in September of this year. The artwork is simple and gives off an almost PANTERA vibe, but it'd fit in well in anyones library.

Opening is the titular "March Of The Obsequious", it really isn't hanging around as the track erupts full bodied, melodic lead guitars accent the rhythm section, all whilst Ronny's powerful vocals cut through in a blistering performance. "Witches Dance" offers a more steadfast track, as the pace feels steadier and more deliberate in its delivery. Musically both tracks are quite different, but they have the TAD MOROSE styling to them, but already this early into the record we can see the different styles that the group can offer.

"Phantasm" has that real awesome Power Metal feel to it from the get go, powerful ripping chords and a slightly more conventional rhythm, it almost feels like a weird cross over between IN FLAMES and SABATON at times. "Escape" continues the fantastic tracking, as that blend of styles really comes to the fore, with amazing accompaniments to accent the instrumentals, there really is just so much going on that helps to deliver fantastic track after fantastic track! "A Trail Of Sins" has its own contrasting styles within itself! With the chorus & verse differing in intensities and then that instrumental break and micro solo?! Holy hell, I think I have just been sold on TAD MOROSE.

"A Quilt Of Shame" feels slower, the music coming from my speakers is denser than before, the vocals rougher and I am living for it. "This Perfect Storm" closes the record on a blinder, with sections seeming to embody the calm before the storm and then the tracking blasting through as it opens up full throttled.

Overall, a brilliant release from the experienced TAD MOROSE. I am a little disappointed I hadn't discovered them until now, but at least I know there is plenty of back catalogue to check out! Fans of SABATON, SCAR SYMMETRY and SOILWORK be sure to check them out.