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Album Review: Svartanatt- Last Days On Earth

An animated picture of a middle aged Native American Man holding an Orb

Review by Anselm Anderson

Swedish rock band Svartanatt may have a difficult name to pronounce but their 70s retro rock style is a nostalgic throwback to a bygone era. The five-piece has released their third studio effort, entitled Last Days on Earth via The Sign Records. The band's doom-and-gloom lyrics mask their upbeat sound of uplifting vocals, razor-sharp riffs and '70s-influenced hard rock and blues.

According to the band, the album covers pessimistic topics like the loss of faith in society and humanity, but don't let that put you off listening to the album because some of the tracks are infectious and will leave you stomping your foot.


 Formed in 2014, the band hails from Stockholm, Sweden and consists of lead vocalist Jani Lehtinen, guitarist Felix Gâaste, drummer Daniel Heaster, bassist Anton Fors and Martin Borgh on organ and percussion duties. Last Days on Earth is a follow-up to 2018's sophomore album Starry Eagled Eyes. Admittedly, the band are new to me, so I am always eager to try some new music. I was instantly impressed with how fresh and original the record was. Recorded in Svenska Grammofonstudion, The album was recorded by Martin Borgh.



So without further ado! Let's dive into the album release. The bluesy riff and Jani's husky voice in "Demons in The Night" offer a solid 70s vibe, backed up by a stirring rhythm section. 




a photo of Svartanatt posing for a promo picture.
Photo Credit: Olof Nyman

 "Mad Stranger" features soft melodies, which could be a radio favourite. The vibrant guitar interplay with a rhythm and blues section is reminiscent of a laid-back Led Zeppelin, making Svartanatt's music fresh and original. The music picks up the mood with the uplifting "The Crows" with an organ intro, stirring keyboards and thick basslines that supplement the mood of the track.


 I tend to make the argument retro bands try hard to replicate Led Zeppelin, but Svartanatt takes a different approach.  They expand their sound through fresh and creative ideas such as the rousing charms of "Child of A Devil", a surefire hit with an energetic riff, catchy chorus and stellar guitar interplay. It's juxtaposed with dazzling keyboards that sound like an obscure band from the '70s. The rhythm section and percussive beats add a progressive element to the music, while the vocals implement the neverending list of riffs produced by Svartanatt. That is not to say the album is full of stomping rhythms and rollicking riffs. The band take a softer approach towards the mid-section of the album with melodic ballads like "Children of The Sun" and "Keep on Movin".


The driven organ sound on "I'm Ready" is something taken from the playbook of the late, great John Lord of Deep Purple fame.  The instrument takes centre stage in "Texas Dance" and "What You Want" to wrap up an enjoyable listen. 


Overall, The album presents a new and unique take on the genre, backed by solid production values that bring out the best in Svartanatt. Although there are instances when the album may feel repetitive, the band's skilful combination of majestic music and strong songwriting is a delight for any classic rock fan.


Rating: 8/10


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Click here to watch the YouTube video for the lead single "Demons In The Night"







Line up since 2019:


Jani Lehtinen – Vocals & Guitar
 
Felix Gåsste - Guitar
 
Anton Fors – Bass & Background Vocals
 
Martin Borgh – Organ & keyboards

Daniel Heaster – Drums & Percussion

Connect with Svartanatt:



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