Time Signature
Stampede...
Genre: melodic hard rock
Yes, the more melodic and pop-induced territory of the hard rock landscape can definitely be a nightmare to listen to, simply because of the focus on commercialism and because releases within this aspect of the hard rock continuum tend to be very cheesy. But, melodic hard rock may indeed also be very tasty and enjoyable, and Snowfall's "Cold Silence" belongs to the enjoyable-category.
Drawing on melodic hard rock with a good dose of AOR, Snowfall have created a collection of very well put together and catchy hard rock tracks, which should appeal to most fans of the harder end of the AOR-spectrum.
'Jack of Diamonds' features several nice riffs and nice guitar details - including some blazing solos and funky grooves akin to what Aerosmith would make back when they didn't suck. Even a more keyboard-driven track, like 'I Won't Be lonely Anymore' is immensely enjoyable for what it is, and 'House of Prayer' is nicely groovy, while 'Alexandria' features some heavy passages.
What makes this album so enjoyable is the musicianship. The rhythm section is rock solid, and Tore Meli's guitar solos are no less than impressive. Lee Small's voice is a bit bluesy and has lots of soul (think Matt Alfonzetti meets Loe Lynn Turner), and he delivers the many catchy choruses perfectly.
Fans of tasteful and sophisticated melodic hard rock are bound to love Snowfall's "Cold Silence".