Battle Beast came up fast
from the Helsinki scene, starting as a hungry newcomer with “Steel” and slowly
climbing toward international visibility. Their mix of heavy metal and bright
synthesizers turned them into festival regulars, and albums like “Circus Of
Doom” pushed them into larger halls and headline tours. “Steelbound”, the
seventh chapter in their journey, arrives with plenty of momentum behind it.
The new album sticks
to the band’s trademark hybrid of metallic crunch and high-energy keys,
wrapping everything around big refrains and Noora
Louhimo’s fiery voice. “Twilight Cabaret” brings a lively Latin swing,
“Angel Of Midnight” dips into an eighties rock flavor, and the title track
storms ahead with a strong emotional core. There is an appetite for earworms
here, almost sugar-coated at times, and the band leans into that approach
fully. The genre itself has been stuck in place for years, and Battle Beast walks straight into that territory
with confidence, giving listeners something comfortable, upbeat, and instantly
familiar.
The production is
bright and loud, clearly shaped for arenas and summer stages. Hooks come flying
one after another, and the choruses feel crafted for big crowds. Even when the
songwriting dips into pop territory, the band stays firmly rooted in heavy metal
muscle. The result is a catchy album that aims to lift spirits more than
challenge the listener, something that suits their live-oriented personality.
“Steelbound” is
entertaining and full of momentum, though not every idea hits with equal
strength. Still, it has enough attitude and color to keep the listener engaged.
Fans of Battle Beast will easily find
themselves singing along by the second spin, and newcomers will get a clear
picture of the band’s identity.
Score: 6.5
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