Windhawk Swedish act MOTHER MISERY has been around since 2004, issuing full length albums in their formative year with a sophomore effort appearing in 2007. Come 2010 and the band has been through a line-up change, and have chosen to sign with Swedish label Transubstans Records for the release of their third full length production "Standing Alone", issued in November 2010.

The basic premise of this disc is in your face metal. At least initially. Steady, powerful rhythms, circulating richly sounding riff patterns with a tendency to utilize harmonic riffs and melodic overlays, and compositions with a fairly repetitive structure in general. High pace and energy combined with brief tracks see to it that none of the ideas are overly explored nor exploited, and in addition the vocals of John Hermansen are given plenty of space to add emotion and power to the proceedings, as most compositions are rather vocal heavy.

As the disc unfolds many more or less subtle alterations of the basic formula are explored, from tight and punk-tinged efforts like Dying Heroes to darker, sophisticated numbers closer to Soundgarden's territories as exemplified by Fade Away. Dampened riffs, quirky rhythm inserts and other features of a more sophisticated nature makes the odd appearance on a more regular basis too, and while not what one might describe as experimental there is a strong alternative streak to this album following the initial couple of numbers. The energy and momentum is maintained throughput however, and the band takes care to keep the songs short and compressed. Some bands fall into the trap of loosing their way amidst such additional features, but that is not the case on his occasion.

All true metalheads appreciate a well made ballad, even if some wouldn't admit to that even under the threat of torture. Be that as it may be, whether openly enjoyed or treasured in secret, final track State of Grace is a haunting ballad showcasing just how much power and emotion a good voice, an acoustic guitar and a cello can craft, with additional strings making the odd appearance to emphasize the emotional aspects of the song and, eventually, taking the song and album to a fitting closure.

"Standing Alone" is a strong slab of contemporary metal that should appeal to a wide cross section of people, as long as they don't mind the occasional sophisticated feature appearing now and then. When that is said, the emphasis is on high energy and momentum, so while this CD might appeal to fans of styles such as progressive metal it is not an example of that genre nor of music from a closely related to it.