Stephen
Another fresh band from Sweden and this time they're playing with a good mix of classic melodic rock and 80s power pop. That may not sound very metallic but I think it's interesting to see how they blend the heaviness of the usual rock style with a sweet flavor of the pop element. For example, the opening track, 'Apocalyptic Youth', both Roxie and Stenemo put up a solid riffs and the chorus chant is just lovable. The follow-up track, 'Deliberately Wasted', is energetic, punchy, and incredibly uplifting.
Perhaps one thing that can bug some people's mind is the simple arrangement, but if you're in this for the fun, I guess songs like 'The Juggler' and 'Rich Girl' are worth the price. 'Love and Desperation' reminds me of MUSE's stampeding riffs that can be found in their latest album. However, despite of the great production, CASABLANCA suffered with a weaker second half. From 'Secret Agent of Lust' all the way to 'A Lifetime On The Run', you might agree that it just can't beat the hits from the earlier part of this album.
This album, even though only carries the torch from the past without any groundbreaking inventive sound, is very entertaining. Light, but didn't fall deep into the blandness of the average modern pop rock stuffs, and quite different from the rest of Sweden sleaze metal gang.