Finnish band Thunderstone is set to release their third full length CD (June '06) on Nuclear Blast Records in the US. The band started back in 2000 and released demos with guitarist Nino Laurenne on lead vocals. Pasi Rantanen joined the band with his pleasantly high pitched vocals.

Mixing styles of David Coverdale (Whitesnake) and Dio with a slight hint of Joey Tempest (Europe), the opening track “Tools of the Devil” has heavy bass pounding riffs and melodic keyboards. If you like 80’s metal mixed with power metal -- you will love this release. Each song has that great 80’s metal vibe brought up to date in a power metal form.

“Without Wings” highlights Kari Tornak's keyboards with more than your basic power metal sound. Kari's sound is more like Keith Emerson ala “Brain Salad Surgery.” “I Will Come” is a slower song that has rippling guitar chords among the perfect blend of vocals and catchy lyrics. Great tunes. “I Will Come” is a track that could bring fans of AOR music to Thunderstone if they get air-play.

In most bands, the bass guitar just seems to blend in with everything else. But, what I like about Thunderstone is that Titus Hjelm shines on many of the songs and gives them that great punch. Thunderstone has the energy and the power on this release that is undeniable to the true power metal fan.

“Another Time” is a good tear-jerking ballad that doesn't go over the edge. If you think that the whole CD is melodic and down to earth, check out “Feed the Fire” -- it's got great guitar riffs and excellent balance.

Thunderstone changes it up a little and leaves the best track for last. Which is strange because the best tracks are usually towards the top of the order. “Land of Innocence” opens with a piano intro mixed with haunting keyboards. There is no doubt in my mind that anyone who hears this song will love it. This song is totally outrageous, a KILLER track. I would consider it a masterpiece. The song has all the right elements - great acoustic guitar, echoing keyboards, and those amazing vocals. When listening to this song, crank that bitch up to 11 and listen to the power when the song reaches 4:40 seconds. Total hell breaks loose!!

This is one fantastic CD!