The French Metal scene always seemed closed within itself. Although names as the legendary TRUST and others made efforts in the past, passing by the LLN Black Metal bands in the 90s, only after GOJIRA reached commercial success in the entire world that the attentions turned to France. Maybe I'm wrong on this matter, because I'm not perfect. But one thing I can guarantee to you all: it's unexpected to me to find a French band as HIGHWAY, and "IV", their latest album, amused me.

It's a Hard/Glam Metal band with very good melodies and excellent choruses, but with an abrasive and aggressive sound. Of course references as SKID ROW on their "Slave to the Grind" times could describe their musical work, along with some nasty influences as AC/DC rawness as well, but with an eclectic insight. But be sure that these guys have personality enough to face any trials, because they aren't kidding when they talk about music! "IV" was produced by the quartet, having Brett Caldas-Lima mixing and mastering the songs. All these efforts were done to make the sound quality abrasive and heavy, but clear enough to understand clearly their melodies and musical arrangements. Be prepared for they can tear your ears apart and conquer your heart!

If when you start to hear "IV", the main idea is that Hard/Glam Metal is reborn with all its influences, and is back to kick off the butts of those who dare to say that the genre is dead. If you start to sing their songs at the first hearing, it's normal, because their melodies are excellent. Let me tell you: if we were on the 80s, they would be a success on radio stations with songs as the catchy and seductive "Brotherhood" (what great melodies, fine backing vocals and lovely chorus, and excellent vocals), the nasty and heavy weight that is presented by guitars on "Pole Dancing Song", the savage "Wake Up" (with that abrasive and heavy Groove elements, and with the guest appearance of Jeff Scott Soto on vocals), the short and abrasive "Damned Me", the introspective and dense arrangements of "Concession Time", the hypnotic rhythm of the nasty and heavy song called "Psycho-Lover", the nasty Hard/Glam blows with fantastic chorus "The Danger Zone" and "Say Your Prayers", the modern Country acoustic song "Chemical Trip", and the heavy Blues song "Separate Ways", their best moments.

If you're addicted to Hard Rock/Glam Metal, listen and buy this album at any cost!