Another 'must have' addition to that steadily growing shopping list!

A Gothenburg based melodic rock quintet who've been around for more than twenty years now, it's probably fair to say that for much of their tenure M.ill.ion have always had to battle against the odds … especially when it comes to record companies! Over the years they've been signed to a few dead ducks – A2, Majestic Rock and Bluestone readily spring to mind – inevitably always finding themselves with a smoking new album to support and promote just as the record company in question goes tits up!

Thankfully, despite carrying a few battle scars they've come through it all resolutely unbroken, and at last seem to have found themselves a much deserved (not to mention more stable) home with German label Metal Heaven (who released their excellent 'Thrill Of The Chase' album about three years ago). More amazingly however, they've always managed to maintain a constant presence on the scene even with all the background shit going down, and are now considered to be seasoned vets having headlined several tours of their own and opened for the likes of Magnum, Nazareth, Status Quo and MSG.

Recorded last year in Sweden, sophomore Metal Heaven set 'Sane And Insanity' is yet another rebirth of sorts for the band, this time showcasing the not inconsiderable talents of new members Andreas Grövle on guitar and Australian import Angelo Modafferi (keyboards). As I said in my review of 'Thrill Of The Chase' back in issue 32, M.ill.ion have always struck me as Sweden's answer to the mighty Pretty Maids, and 'Sane And Insanity' once again reaffirms that.

Drawing heavily on the same rich well of inspiration which inspired 70's legends such as Rainbow, Whitesnake, Thin Lizzy and UFO (amongst others), M.ill.ion offer a rootsy brand of sophisticated yet accessible hard rock which eschews any unnecessary gimmicks, relying instead on strong hooks, great playing and solid songwriting to get its point across. And on that score they've really hit pay dirt this time around, animated anthems such as 'Drama Queens', 'Sea Of Fate/Cry To Heaven', 'Fuel To My Heart', Everyday Hero' ' and 'Sane And Insanity' as strong and memorable as anything that's gone before, possibly stronger. Making full use of all available light and shade thanks to a variety of different tempos the album has a bold, seat of the pants dynamic that draws you in and keeps you entertained throughout; which, when added to a booming production ensures it hits home all the harder.

Classy songs, great playing and an obvious renewed sense of purpose within the ranks make this easily the most accomplished M.ill.ion set to date, and as such another 'must have' addition to that steadily growing shopping list!

Dave Cockett