After receiving ecstatic reviews from all over the world for their 2023 debut "To The Gods We Swear", Norwegian Heavy Metal warriors Rozario return with a vengeance.Rozario have added fresh firepower to the lineup with the incredible young guitarist Tara Lister , whose talent brings an extra edge and intensity to the band's signature sound."Northern Crusaders" was recorded at Holter Studio, once again with Trond Holter (Jorn, Wig Wam) at the helm,the band's trusted producer and the unofficial sixth member! Ensuring a sound that's as grand and powerful as the band's vision itself.Their new album, "Northern Crusaders" is not just a follow-up, it's a statement of intent.This is a band on their own "Northern Crusaders", carrying the flag for classic, Melodic Heavy Metal into a new era.

The lead single from this sophomore album "Fire And Ice" is a solid start,it hits hard with a fast pace & energy with some chugging riffs and great guitar work,some solid double kicking drums,the pace momentarily drops to deliver a solid chorus."We Are One" is the second lead single chugs along at mid paced tempo,Scandinavian Metal with a huge fist pumping the air,sing-a-long chorus,a touch more melodic i'd say sounds a little bit like  H.E.A.T. in places."Down Low" opens with some heavy bold riffing,a track with a heavy stomping melody & rhythm."Crusader" is a track where David Rozario leads to the band into  battle,another strong mid-paced Metal track,with some scorching guitar work.Another track on the album "Until Gods Calling" has a Judas Priest/Dio feel its another heavy hitting track with some gritty riffing with a strong commanding vocal."Sleepless" opens with some monster riffs,before we go into a lighter more slower moment,before launching into a symphonic chorus,a track with plenty of light and shade moments."The Warning" is a track of epic proportions,the chorus is Viking Metal,the powerful delivery delivered in unison is massive, one of the strongest tracks on "Northern Crusaders".Ending the album is "Betrayed" it has a heavy feel with some bluesy moments without losing that Rozario sound,classic feeling with another strong vocal,strong rhythm section and heavy guitars,which ends the album on a strong footing.

"Northern Crusaders" is a strong guitar driven Heavy Metal album,which is sees Rozario step it up considerably on the debut album "To The Gods We Swear".There is a definite progression,12 solid tracks with great vocals,musicianship and production.Fans of Priest,Dio and Helloween will welcome this album with open arms,plenty of headbanging,fist pumping metal with shades of Power and Viking Metal.A very strong release,available via Pride & Joy Music 20th February.