Melodic Hard Rock act SILVER END hail from the rainy coastline of Bergen, Norway. They formed in 2012; four guys with very different musical backgrounds. They released their debut album "Beyond Limits" in 2013, landing an opening spot for PAPA ROACH thereafter. "Spreading Fire" is their new 2017 release, and contains twelve tracks. Let's get to some of the highlights on the album.

"Intro" is a thirty-second opening instrumental with an ominous tone, leading quickly into "Winning the Raffle." It has a hard edge from a meaty riff, falling somewhere in the Hard Rock/Heavy Metal area. The vocal harmonies in the chorus push the sound for the most part, and is has a big, full sound akin to Arena Rock. "Rising from the Ashes" is more in the mid-tempo pace but still punches you with a melodious chorus that is prolonged for impact. "Chills" has that tender sound of longing from a really wonderful riff that just hits home. I don't care what kind of music you call it, when it sounds good, all you need to do is just listen and enjoy. It is very touching. "Hope" is a nice balanced song between energetic fuel and warm melodies from emotional vocals and lead guitar notes that sparkle in and around.

"Chains" is more of a heavy rocker that talks about the burdens we all face in life and the need to rise up, meet and defeat them so as not to be "shackled" by them. It has a sad tone as well, affirming these burdens. "Not Alone" sports some vocal harmonies in a slow moving track that has emotional peaks in the chorus, talking about fighting for what is real and for what one feels. "Profit of the Child" has some far reaching melodies and the chords stay in the major range for the most part, making for a positive and pleasing sound that is easy assimilated to your ears. The tender touch is noteworthy here as well. Closing the album is "The Valley," which might be the best song on the album for me due to the emotions it triggers in the listener. It's a very sweet song that talks about you never being alone. I can't quite place a comparison for you with a band that you might know, but it doesn't matter anyway as it is just a great song.

SILVER END have quite a knack for lush and pleasing songs here on "Spreading Fire." There is also a diverse mix of heavier rocking tracks and more introspective softer ones that allow you to enjoy energy and fortitude along with some piquant moments of beauty that leave a lasting impression. Any fan of Melodic Rock will surely find the album to their liking in my opinion.