MERCENARY

Without a doubt, MERCENARY are one of the most successful Danish bands today. All the signs of rapidly growing popularity are plain to see: a major label deal, an active touring schedule. And finally, a splendid new album. On "11 Dreams" the band offers the listener excellently recorded dark metal, not without some nu-metal leanings. The melodicism typical of European acts intertwines with transatlantic aggression, resulting in a powerful, dynamic work that, while not exactly brimming with variety, will appeal above all to fans of quality music. Proponents of innovation may find it somewhat bland (EVERGREY, for instance, have been playing similar music longer and better), and yet — the superb production and stylish artwork by Niklas Sundin (DARK TRANQUILLITY) make a strong case for "11 Dreams" as a commercial product of the highest caliber.