It's a pity that many history writers about Metal timelines seem to ignore the importance of the name of ACCEPT. Basically, they are the precursors of many of Metal genres that were born on Europe. And they are a huge influence for German, Swedish and Finnish schools, occupying the same place that JUDAS PRIEST is on US Metal school. So, to hear a work of a band like FRETLESS, a Swedish quartet from Vansbro/Ludvika/Borlänge, shows it clearly on "Damnation", their latest full length. Musically, is a form of modern Hard Rock with high doses of traditional Heavy Metal influence on their music (especially from German Heavy Metal), so the listener must be prepared for a high level of energy, charming choruses and the high amount of aggressiveness flowing from their melodies. Of course it's nothing new in terms of Metal genre, but it works finely on the band's hand, pulsing with a personality.

On the sound quality, "Damnation" shows a very good of Robert Romagna on the mixing and mastering, giving shape and making the album sounds loud, clean and heavy in the right proportions. Yes, it sounds aggressive and kicking, and they use a very good set of tunes on each musical instrument. All the songs are very good, but their highlights are on the anthemic chorus of "Burn" (very good guitars and vocals, but some touches of keyboards can be heard as well), the silk melodic aggressiveness show on "Let's Get High" and "Higher Ground" (both permeated with a good dose of musical accessibility, but keeping the musical weight due the work from bass guitar and drums), the heavy ballad heard on "Black Moon", the balance between aggressiveness and catchy melodies heard on "Spread Your Wings" and "No More" (once more, crushing guitar riffs and good vocals), and the very good tempos of "Spellbound". But once more: the entire album is very good.

Take the chance and hear "Damnation" out loud, and give respect to FRETLESS!