Offensive Ground
Reborn

Earlier this year we were introduced to the first album by Swedish band Offensive Ground, it is called Reborn. I am not sure if the title bears any reflection on the band. I did review their first EP Breathe back in 2012 and I liked it, and pointed out that you should memorise the band’s name. Since the debut EP they have released a second EP that I have not heard but this album I have finally managed to review, better late than never perhaps. One thing I do notice when comparing between the EP and the album is that the band has a better-looking artwork for the album but I think that their logo on the EP was nicer.

Some years hasn’t really changed that much when it comes to the musical style, it still sounds like something very inspired by the Finns. Like a more progressive version of bands like Sentenced or To/Die/For is a way to describe it by using the fine art of namedropping. It is quite heavy, powerful but still melodic, diverse, somewhat complex, the vocalist is good and diverse and I think that is one thing that has evolved quite a bit in comparison with what we got last on the debut. The music also spans a wider spectrum compared with Breathe, modern progressive metal might be a good way to describe this album but it is a wide spanning musical painting they show us with this debut album. An album with excellent production, very clear and showing the musical elements really well while still keeping it heavy and a little rough around the edges – and it is varied as well as kept fairly short with a playing time shorter than 50 minutes.

It is a quality production and the songs are great as well, in fact I think it is difficult to find any faults with this album and you should know that faults and negative aspects are things a critic should look rather hard for. The only small thing I can see is the lack of that amazing hit song that separates the timeless classics from the great albums. But all the songs are good so that is a small thing and I believe that most of our readers will fins this album quite brilliant as it has more or less everything you can hope for in an album. I really enjoy it, from the first song Drained to the ending song Dissolved it is great and there are not many moments where I lose interest.

Alone is a song that maybe stand out for me, but that is because it feels like it is a song that suits me because of the lyrical content – because I rather walk alone. Other than that I think this is an album that makes an impression and proves that I was correct in suggesting that you commit this band’s name to memory because they seem to be destined for great music. In a fair world they would sell a lot of albums as their music probably appeals to anyone due to the great musical diversity they show. It is a highly recommended album that should appeal to you.

HHHHHHH