From the info that came with the music: SALEM is a hard rock/heavy metal band from Hull, England. The band was formed by guitarist Paul Tognola and drummer Paul Conyers after the split-up of ETHEL THE FROG. They had a three-year run, releasing a few demos and a 7" single. After 27 years they reactivated for a second run of seven years, during which time several new recordings were released. In late 2017 SALEM released the album "Attrition"; shortly afterwards the band split. Original members Simon Saxby (vocals) and Adrian Jenkinson (bass) continued as SALEM UK. In that capacity the released the album “Win Lose or Draw” in 2019. Now, another five years later, we are being treated to “Outer Limits”.

For those who are not familiar with the music SALEM UK plays, we are talking fast paced Melodic Heavy Metal. Whether you listen to the 2016 album “Dark Days” or anything later than that, it is easy recognisable as SALEM UK. That is not only because of the kind of music that is played, but is also due to the very distinctive and rather high pitched voice of singer Simon Saxby. I will tell you right away that it is an acquired taste, and for me one that I find does match the music very well. His lyrics are straight forward, easily to understand and don’t give much room for misinterpretation.

As for the quality of the music on “Outer Limits”; it is very constant. And of a higher level than average. No, SALEM UK isn’t treading on new grounds. On the contrary, they have always kept on the path they found some years ago, and quite rightly so. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Thankfully they know how to write songs, how to play their instruments and how to record an album. “Outer Limits” is a very easy album to listen to, sometimes too easy. Or should I say predictable.

It doesn’t take much time before you can sing along with the songs, and that, my friends, is what is withholding me from giving this SALEM UK album a higher rating. There are no surprises on “Outer Limits”. And I would have expected at least one. Like I said, this is good music by a very decent band, but with every album you want them to give you something new. Unfortunately SALEM UK have forgotten that part on “Outer Limits”.