Dream Evil | Thunder In The Night EP |Century Media Records

 

 Dream Evil is a Swedish heavy metal band formed in 1999 by producer/guitarist Fredrik Nordström, known for his work with bands such as In Flames, Dimmu Borgir, and At The Gates. Teaming up with vocalist Niklas Isfeldt, drummer Snowy Shaw, bassist Peter Stålfors, and guitarist Gus G., the band released its debut album, “Dragonslayer,” in 2002. The band quickly became associated with the European power and traditional heavy metal resurgence, known for their straightforward, anthemic style rooted in the classic metal traditions of Judas Priest, Accept, and Dio. Over the years, line-up changes have occurred, but the core vision has remained centered around melodic hooks, mid-tempo heavy riffs, and lyrics centered on metal themes, fantasy, and perseverance.

"Thunder In The Night" is a short collection of four songs that continue the sound developed on Dream Evil’s 2023 album “Metal Gods”. These tracks were recorded during those sessions and now receive their own release. The EP’s tone is consistent with what the band has been delivering since their early 2000s debut: straightforward heavy metal that draws on familiar genre tropes with energy and precision.

The production, handled by Fredrik Nordström at Studio Fredman, carries a tight and balanced sound. The guitars are prominent, the rhythm section is sharp, and the vocals are delivered with clarity and force. Guest appearances bring a touch of character to two of the tracks—Andy LaRocque contributes a solo to the title track, while Pontus Norgren (HammerFall) brings his own guitar flavor to "Fight For Glory." These contributions are integrated without altering the overall identity of the EP.

Lyrically and musically, the songs focus on core heavy metal themes, and there is no deviation into experimental or progressive territory. The riffs are structured and predictable but satisfy genre expectations. The choruses are melodic, the solos are well-crafted, and the pacing across the four tracks is steady and consistent.

"Thunder In The Night" doesn’t aim to redefine Dream Evil or their sound. Rather, it adds a few more songs to the band’s catalog that are in line with what fans of traditional heavy metal would expect. The songs are tight, energetic, and driven by rhythm and melody, without drifting into either extreme of technicality or simplification.

The EP artwork by Seth Siro Anton reflects the band’s aesthetic—bold imagery that matches the dramatic, classic heavy metal atmosphere of the music. There is a sense of completeness in these four tracks. Even though they were initially left off “Metal Gods”, they don’t feel underdeveloped or stitched together. Instead, they serve as a thematic and musical extension, holding their own as a compact and accessible release.

Score: 7.5