VEONITY is a power metal band from Sweden, who formed in 2013. Their latest release, “The Final Element” is their sixth full-length album; they have also released an EP. I’ve been a power metal fan for as long as I can remember but it’s a very bloated genre with a metric butt load of bands. As such, it’s a genre I struggle to follow regularly so it’s only seldom that I hear a band from the style that grabs me. VEONITY has definitely grabbed me! I was not familiar with them before I received this promo, and unfortunately I haven’t had time to visit any previous releases, but “The Final Element” is a solid album from beginning to end.

The album has all the hallmarks of what makes a good power metal album: soaring vocals, fast riffs, and outrageous amounts of double bass. But it also has the most important element of any power metal album: catchy as hell songs. Every song has a huge chorus and it’s all highlighted by the slick production, which puts a focus on their quick, punchy songs. Isak Stenvall's vocals are fantastic–he isn’t overly nasally or high pitched. But when he needs to, he reaches for the skies and brings an operatic performance. Musically, the album is, of course, riff focused while dancing between mid to faster paced tempos. But there is plenty of melody here as well, Anders and Samuel both adapt at using it at just the right moments against the heavier side of the band, such as galloping riffs or solos. Kristoffer’s bass and Joel’s drums are very firm and provide an excellent rhythm section.

The album begins with “Premonition,” which is a short intro but it introduces the album well and sets up the first full song, “Chains of Tyranny.” This song begins with fast riffs, sharp drumming, and a powerful wail. The melodic riffs are the perfect foundation for the vocals to bounce off, leading into a huge chorus. The solo rips but I especially like the drums and bass that back it up. It all comes together near the end with a rousing chorus of vocals. Grandiose!! “Carry On,” is an interesting song; the chorus is a sort of ballad type approach but every other part of the song is heavy and fast, one of the more energetic pieces on the album. Going back to the chorus—MASSIVE. The riffs around the 2:40 mark are tight but break away naturally to give way to a melodic section and a slower tempo that works well.

Even on an album that is one giant earworm, “Warriors Code” stands out with a gripping presence. The song begins intensely but the music breaks in sections to allow the vocals to shine through before sliding back into balanced riffs. The song has a forward momentum and each part is met head on with fervor. Of course, the chorus was stuck in my head for sometime and demands multiple listens. The music after the break of the chorus is old school galloping mixed with a keen sense of harmony. “Heart of a Warrior,” is one of the heavier songs on the album with a lot of sweet riffs and the back up/gang vocals fit the song like a glove. This is one of the more straightforward songs as well but it’s a strong representation of the band’s style and I bet it could be a big hit live.

The final song, “The Fifth Element,” goes for broke with a giant vocal part as soon as the song begins. The drums are especially on point but the riffs bring it hard as well, even during the chorus so the song never loses its heavy potency. All in all, VEONITY’s “The Element,” isn’t reinventing the wheel or anything for the genre but they do exemplify it in the very best ways. If your taste for metal is for something that is definitely heavy but extreme, this album needs to be on your radar. A good time is guaranteed to be had with this album.