COBRA SPELL channels the glam-based metal that ruled arenas and clubs in the mid-1980s on their first release, the four-song EP "Love Venom." The EP shows the quintet from the Netherlands to have learned the lessons of their predecessors well, as it offers 17 minutes of high energy, melodically riffy, and hook heavy rock-and-roll. "Come On Tonight" opens with the sound of breaking glass, after which mildly distorted wailing guitars, backed by a driving beat, establish the track's overriding melody. The track is propulsive and builds to big choruses that show the bands' ability to harmonize. Sonia Anubis's and Sebastian "Spyder" Silva's dual guitar work is complimentary to each other, as well as the overall rhythm and tonality of the track.

Starting large and grand "Poison Bite's" foundational, guitar-driven rhythm is punctuated by cymbal crashes as the track gains momentum. It's driving all the way through, as a single guitar line highlights the tune's basic rhythm. The guitar solo break was of interest, both wailing and tapping, having a lighter and then denser feel. The song "Love Venom" qualifies as the EP's power ballad. Played at a slower tempo, the track has a moody, more atmospheric feel. The guitar work speaks of longing and, in true mid-80s form, the choruses are immense.

The EP closes with "Shake Me," which I consider the highlight of the album. Reminiscent at times of MÖTLEY CRÜE's "Dr. Feelgood," especially during the intro, "Shake Me" shows COBRA SPELL in all their glam rock glory. Simply put, everything the band has to offer comes together and blends seamlessly on the track. "Love Venom" has the attitude and swagger of a mid-1980s metal, a time when the tunes were catchy, rhythms tight, choruses prominent, and guitar work the highlight of each song. If you let yourself go, you just might be able to see the spandex and smell the hairspray when giving this EP a spin.