Artist: Wicked Sensation
Title: Crystallized
Type: Album
Label: Metal Heaven Records

Wicked Sensation’s last release came out 6 years ago, with the band splitting in 2006. Now fully back on track, Michael Klein and original singer Robert Soeterboek have rounded the troops and have produced a stand out album in 2010 with ‘Crystalized’. ‘My Turn to Fly’ is a massive tune; a real catchy number, going into latter Helloween territory, no doubt helped with the guest appearance in vocals from Andi Deris. But that is not all; a charismatic vocal performance from Robert Soeterboek makes this a special release. Sometimes compared to Whitesnake, you can here those influences, especially in the blues tinged numbers, but the real gem is the warmth of the arrangements. Every piece of music is crafted in such a way that you feel warm and happy, like a comfortable old pair of shoes! Klein’s fretwork is blistering, emotive and filled with promise; each note takes you to a well-placed position, not quite predictive, but musically crafted to perfection.

The album plays out for a very long time, but this does not put me off. In fact, I cannot wait to hear what the next track is going to do or where it will take me. Highlights include opener ‘Better World’ and the funky groove of ‘Give it Up’ that in places reminds me of a couple of forgotten UK bands, but simply for its groove not musical similarities, namely Little Angels and Skin. But don’t let that put you off, this album truly rocks and lives and breaths future classic tunes with some monstrous melodies and harmonies. This is an album that really grabbed me and made me listen to intently, it should you too. Buy this album, this to me eases into your comfort zone and makes you believe that true hard rock is still alive.

http://www.wickedsensation.de/
http://www.metalheaven.net/html/home.html