This band started life as SOUTHERN DEATH CULT in 1981, before changing their name to DEATH CULT when Billy Duffy entered their ranks. Soon after, the name was changed into THE CULT in 1983, so thirty-nine years ago, in Bradford, Yorkshire, England. They have always been the odd one out when it comes to the Metal society, as they are more Rock than anything. To me they have the same problem as GLENN DANZIG always has had; you either love them or hate them. But whereas DANZIG made mediocre music to my ears, THE CULT did have something a lot more exciting. So, it would be fun to find out if they have succeeded in keeping that expressive and distinctive sound they are so renowned for.

Well, of course they have, because with original guitarist Billy Duffy and vocalist Ian Astbury they can only sound in their only unique way. So, the next question is if I feel that the music on "Under The Midnight Sun" is of a quality that deserves to be mentioned as full-blown THE CULT. I will say one thing, and that is that there's nothing wrong with the songs themselves, as there is no way you can identify them as being from another band. So, that's a good thing, right?

Well, it doesn't have to be, as I can't get past the assumption that in my mind the songs are a bit too tame and too bland. Neither Ian  his voice or Billy his riffs go over a certain boundary. I just don't get the exciting feeling I used to get when the band were at the height of their success. The music never becomes explosive, doesn't' raise the roof or throw you into orbit. No, it just keeps plodding on. Yes, it is in a pleasant way, with a good sound and proper songs, but it would have been nice to hear some extra heavy guitar solos, or heavier riffs to take the reins and guide the band along.

And no, I don't think that "Under The Midnight Sun" is a bad album at all, but a band like THE CULT has had such a brilliant career that you will always compare what they do now to those albums you thought made them extra special. And I can only conclude that they are missing that extra ingredient this time around. And that is a pity.