Artist: M.ILL.ION
Title: Sane & Insanity
Type: Album
Label: Metal Heaven Records

With six albums behind them, M.ILL.ION are apparently one of Scandinavia’s elite bands. The band has successfully headlined the “spendrups” stage at the hallowed Sweden Rock Festival, and even graced our countries Firefest stage on its first outing. Immediately the opener ‘Cry to Heaven’ has a vocal hook and free flowing melody to make the coldest nights feel that bit brighter and warmer, the guitar solo makes the fire burn even brighter, there is some quality licks on display. The background keyboard sounds are subtle and not overbearing, with light and shade in the right places. Clearly experience and song writing skills are a strong accolade for M.ILL.ION. The catchiness of ‘Everyday Hero’ blends that 70’s classic rock with the hard rock teachings of the following decade, there is no need for squeals, growls or anything in between from the vocals, this is a real singer, real guitar player and a damn fine band if the truth be told. Ok, we do get our fill of these bands over a certain period of time, but to be in this field of music, you have to be good at your art, there is no room for mediocrity or sub-standard arrangements. The album title track even goes so far as the Jon Oliva/Savatage route, rolling up into the stratosphere with a majestic first lead break, although the keyboard parts are dangerously close to the ‘Gutter Ballet’ run (Savatage), this still does not disguise the original arrangement of rather epic proportions topped off with ‘Drama Queens’ providing a metal riffing delight, full of energy and pure class, as is the album to be fair.

If you like the classic rock styling’s of Queensr˙che, older classics like Deep Purple (for the keyboard inclusion), Ten and label mates Bad Habit and TNT then M.ILL.ION are right up your street. Each song comprises of mature arrangements, hooks, and fills, and is basically music to make you feel good about yourself.

http://www.myspace.com/millionized
http://www.metalheaven.net