LANCER is a power/speed metal band based out of Arvika, Sweden. Following the release of a Demo and an EP, they present their second full-length released entitled "Second Storm," containing nine tracks. "Running from the Tyrant" is the opening track. Right out of the gate there is a contagious energy imbedded in the swift pace of the song, and a big, full chorus. Isak's vocal range is impressive, in the tradition of the bands that precede them in this genre.

"Iwo Jima" is a nice war anthem, full of pleasing harmonies and big melodies, really drawing out the sound in grand fashion. Favoring the keep the guitar solo as an accent to the main melody, they do a good job of keeping that memorable long after the track ends. "Masters and Crowns" features that two guitar opening that is so common in the NWOBHM movement of the late 1970's and early 1980's. The sound here in this track really soars, shooting high into the sky. When Isak lets loose, he can really negotiate his voice in the upper ranges with ease, as in the opening scream of "Behind the Walls." The hastened pace careens straight at you, with the double bass thundering forward like well-oiled machine. The fifth track "Aton" clocks in just under ten minutes. It has a slower and more deliberate rhythm, like any epic story. There is definitely a mystical quality to this piece and some noted influence from IRON MAIDEN in the guitar harmonies, particularly after the second chorus. There are really three distinct movements in the song if you will, and they connect very memorably. I really like the way the song ends in this massive crescendo of beauty and light. Returning to the swift rocking pace, "Children of the Storm" lays down a super melodic chorus and a thick bridge section chocked full of guitar harmonies. Key changes provide a nice element of surprise. "Eyes of the Liar" is another song where that mysterious, almost supernatural quality permeates the track, but does not overtake the main melody. "Fools Marches On" is the closing song and the second longest on the album. They close in grand fashion here, with a track that seems to encompass nearly every element that we have heard to date. LANCER'S power metal is all about feeling and emotion. It just makes you feel good, like you want to take up a quest to a distant land and leave everything behind. The musicianship and songwriting is strong and fresh, and the band's synergy is driven by the very impressive vocals of Isak Stenvall.