TUNGSTEN might be a new band, but the names of the individual members are not. They were formed back in 2016 by former HAMMERFALL drummer Anders Johansson and his two sons, Karl and Nick on bass and guitars respectively. Mike Andersson shortly completed the lineup on the vocals and so their debut record "We Will Rise" is now ready to take on the world.

TUNGSTEN's brand of Power Metal encompasses influences from SONATA ARCTICA's melodies and TURISAS' Folk elements, creating a bright mix of modern Power Metal and old Nordic sound. The verses are filled with engaging melodies and the choruses are big and catchy. Right from the opening track "We Will Rise", you know you'll be up to something big. They also displayed RAMMSTEIN influences in some moments especially in "The Fairies Dance" for its electric riffs and drum beats. Mike also proves to be the best fitting vocalist for the band as he can deliver multiple singing styles hence keeping up with the ever-changing natures of the songs. Up until "It Ain't Over", you can say that the album is progressive in nature. They also had Nu Metal elements present in DISTURBED in some of the tracks.

If there is one thing that this album is very rich with, it has to be the engaging verses. So many Power Metal bands rely heavily on their choruses to carry all the burden of creating an epic vibe, but TUNGSTEN's attack features both bombastic verses and equally anthemic choruses. This makes the songs so memorable. One listen to "Animals" and you'll be addicted to it easily. The biggest moment in the album has to be "To The Bottom". All the elements they showcased in the rest of the tracks are present in the song - but with a twist. In this song, they created a theatrical atmosphere and a very adventurous and playful vibe - one that can challenge TWILIGHT FORCE and GRIMGOTTS. It is also the most dynamic track in the album constantly shifting gears within passages.

In the ninth month of this year, 2019 still proves to be a tremendous year for Melodic Metal. This debut effort by TUNGSTEN is another addition the awesome Melodic Metal releases this year and I can't wait to hear some more from in the coming years.