Outshine – Until We Are Dead (2010)

Part of the new wave of Swedish heavy metal, Outshine has released their latest hard rocking effort, Until We Are Dead. This album definitely has a heavy feel to it. Not glam rock, and certainly not modern rock, Until We Are Dead has its own unique sound that is hard to categorize. That’s always the sign of an original band. Outshine are their own type of music, heavy as it is.

Lead singer Erlend Jegstad has an incredible voice that is showcased all over this disc. His high vocals are the perfect contrast to the dark music, creating an incredible wall of enjoyable sound. Jegstad’s voice is a breath of fresh air in the world of heavy metal. As unique as his band, Jegstad can’t be classified. What he does is sing his ass off and put exceptional vocal tracks on Until We Are Dead.

Until We Are Dead is filled with chord and tempo changes that would make Rush proud. Constantly evolving and never repeating, each song on this album is a unique experience. Without any ballads or filler, Outshine has put together 10 tracks of hardcore, hard rock. If you’re a fan of banging your head hard to progressive, dark metal, Until We Are Dead is the album for you.

Guitarist Jimmy Norberg gets to show off his shredding skills frequently. On the opening notes of Viva Shevegas, Norberg’s guitar kicks off the song in style. His work on “One For The Nerves” and “Ain’t Life Grand” is stellar. Norberg shows his talent throughout the record and his talent is enormous. Excellent guitar work is really what helps Until We Are Dead stand out from the rest of the pack.

Packed with themes of drinking, death, darkness, murder, and confusion, Until We Are Dead is a heavy album that metal fans are bound to love. Stand out tracks on the disc include “Ain’t Life Grand”, “Viva Shevegas”, and “Riot”. All exceptionally crafted, these songs are the strongest showcase of Outshine’s ability as a band.

Until We Are Dead is a solid album that metal fans are sure to love. Heavy guitars, pounding drums (with exceptional rhythm), anger filled vocals, and energetic rock music complete this disc and make it a worthwhile investment. If you’ve been searching for that summer album where you can roll down the windows of your car, crank the music, pump your fist in the air, and bang your head while driving 70, look no further. Until We Are Dead is the goal that you seek.

If you like to purchase your music via download, you can pick up Until We Are Dead at this link. By doing so, you will get also get Outshine’s cover of the Billy Idol classic, “White Wedding”. Check it out!!

Rating: Out of 10