Fiery Melodic Hard Rock that's delivered with passion, punch and insatiable intent.

Mainland Europe has never been overly prolific within the arena of Rock music. Yes, we've had the likes of Golden Earring, Focus, Scorpions, Gotthard, Bonfire et al, but they are the exception to the rule compared with the U.K., U.S.A. and, more recently, Scandinavia. However, it's not through a lack of trying – there has always been a strong second-tier of artists who, for whatever reason, have perpetually tried to break through, but never quite hit those dizzy heights of "superstardom"(!).

Germany's Châlice are a prime example; formed in the north German port of Hamburg in 1992, they have recently produced their seventh album containing fiery, Melodic Hard Rock that's delivered with passion, punch and insatiable intent. Right from the get-go, Gino Naschke (vocals), Oliver Scheer (guitars), Steve Lagleder (bass), Michael Mehl (drums) and Axel Hoffmann (keys) take no prisoners.

'You Better Get Used To It' has a Pink Cream 69 (circa 1991) vibe to it, and whilst the title track that follows is slightly more melodic, it still retains a Metal authority. What is instantly distinguishable are the Jon Lord-esque keyboard accompaniments; no surprise there really, as the band have supported Deep Purple in the past – (Uriah Heep, Tesla, Nazareth and Alice Cooper have also shown faith in the band as their opening act).

Throughout the opus, Naschke is constantly spanning the vocal spectrum; whether it be the fast, Metal-tinged deliveries on 'Glorious Again' and 'Don't Tell Me Lies' or the mid-tempo melodic panache of 'All About Your Love' and 'Turn Away', he really does give it his all. Probably my favourite song on the album is 'Chasing The Wind' which is an amalgamation of styles and encompasses everything that the band has to offer, beginning with a delicate piano intro and culminating with rampant riffing.

One thing I must emphasise here; I truly believe it's imperative to listen to an album at least half a dozen times, as initially... even after several spins... I wasn't over enamoured by what was on show – but the songs gradually began to display themselves and if you appreciate any of the aforementioned bands, you will find something to enjoy here. Châlice also have a softer side; 'Sign Of The Times' is a commendable ballad and the short instrumental closer 'Last Wish' is a pleasant, serene way to conclude the opus.

I'm surmising that Châlice are a popular band to go and see live (within a certain radius) and this album would certainly justify that, especially with the volume cranked right up. But will 'Overyears Sensation' be the album that expands their fan base and finally elevate them to the next level? Only time will tell. A good effort though.

Dave Crompton