HOUSE OF SHAKIRA is a well-known name within the Melodic Rock scene. These Swedes have been around since 1991 and now they are releasing "XIT", their 11^th full album to date. That is, if you count "Best Of Two", the compilation that was released after their initial two albums. Otherwise, this is their tenth original album. And I don't know what they have in the water in Stockholm, but this again is a very fine sounding record. The production is superb, giving every note and sound the right colour and attention.

That must one of the advantages of being signed by such a mighty record company as FRONTIERS MUSIC Srl, although everybody knows that it doesn't matter how good your record company is, if you are not capable of writing, arranging, playing and recording songs to their full extent, you will still add to nothing. Well, to be very blunt, HOUSE OF SHAKIRA doesn't have to worry about that side of the deal at all. They are very well capable of making music that excites the Melodic Rock lover.

In the 43 minutes that the band is throwing "XIT' at you, there is not one second that you feel bored, that you feel that this was something done as an obligation. No, this sounds inspired, fresh and varied, almost to a fault. And yes, after 32 years of existence, HOUSE OF SHAKIRA isn't afraid to add some contemporary sound effects when deemed appropriate. It prevents sound as well as the experience to go stale whilst listening.

And yes, I have listened to this one extensively. After hearing the quality of bands like WYTCH HAZEL from the UK and INVASION from Norway there are a few conclusions to be drawn. First off, Melodic Rock can come from anywhere. Plus, the quality of the bands is there to he heard and seen. And the fact that "XIT" is another positive notch on the post of HOUSE OF SHAKIRA only adds fuel to that conclusion. It has been a long time since I reviewed three great Melodic Rock/Metal bands in such a short time, but there you have it. I have now, and I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
So, I'll just type it again; HOUSE OF SHAKIRA is bringing another very good album to your ears. As "XIT" contains only killer songs, which means it is without any fillers, it is just more proof that these Swedes know how to catch your attention and keep it on their music for the full 43 minutes.