I am aware of the fact it is arduous a task indeed to return with an album that is supposed to please everybody. Thirty years that have passed since VOODOO`s debut album was out is a long time indeed. This, as well as exerted external pressure, are two important factors we need to take into consideration. And this is why I admire this band since they put so much effort into linking (musically) their old and new albums. Wasn’t easy, for sure, especially when we realize that their old fans obviously expected a new output to be a direct continuation of what was composed and recorded back in 1987. It is however an easier task to deal with the younger generation as these people don’t know of the debut album and therefore will be exposed to something unknown; or, perhaps they have been brought up in a different musical environment and these people expect something new and fresh from this Cracow-based crew. So, as you can see it is hard to please everybody, to make some sort of universal music connecting all generations of heavy metal fans. Because each and every generation have their own favourite types of sound and their own idols they revere. In result, it is strenuous to establish a middle ground. Another thing is band`s new vocalist. Not all the fans can come to terms with such a drastic move even in the situation in which the replacement appears good. Practically, the band have had to start rebuilding their position anew; luckily,they don’t lack determination and they enjoy what they do. Therefore, I am very happy for them and I do hope they will return to the place in which they used to be before. It must be observed, the vocals are done by Piotr Foreman Foryś, the guy we know from HELLIAS, a thrash music band. Piotr is one of these vocalists who were born to become stage artists; stage environment is natural to them. These people, including Piotr,feel right when placed in the right habitat (stage) turning their bandsinto a reservoir of energy and vitality when performing live. The new incarnation ofVOODOO has gained a lot by acquiring such a vocalist and despite the fact thatPiotr`s voice isn’t as high-pitched as Jarosław Blandziński`s, it still matches theVOODOO`s music style. The new album features nine brand new tracks. The first song on this album is Zaiste with truly powerful sound and plenty of energy as well as a very catchy refrain = well done! Amazing guitar variations dedicated to the immortal duo of Ryszard Krupa and Andrzej Knap is another strong point of this album. What I don’t like is annoying drumming, which sounds weak when compared to meaty guitars. Yes, proper, powerful drumming is not present here on MMXIX. Ok, what I am driving at is drumming is well-executed and stuff, but sounds flat as if as a drum machine or drum practice pads were utilized. Krzyż comes second, with a slightly more “power metal” vibe in it and very melodic guitar lines. Lichwa is this album`s one of strongest points, with very good lyrics; thick, heavy metal guitar sound, a good catchy refrain – a really good radio hit. Good, sparky solos, yes, this track is great. Another cut is called Pożądanie. Plenty of varied guitar lines and in my opinion this song is very close to “old” VOODOO. The guitars are savage and twisted – that’s theVOODOOI love best. Awesome! Pocałunek Śmierci is a classic VOODOOballad, another radio hit and it`ll be a classic song, for sure. Impreza U Aliis a simple and very catchy track which is really memorable. The solo on this track is a piece of good metal music. Dyktator stands for getting back to the heavy metal style. Unfortunately, the drumming again becomes too annoying to fully enjoy the rest of this cut. It is a pity, as the album is really good. Czarny Płomień is next. Plenty, plenty of good guitar stuff here, the guitarists enjoy what they`re doing, toying with their instruments. Awesome sound of the lead guitar is as sharp as a razor blade. Another good track this album features. Demolkais the final song on this album. Really catchy this hit song is. Good! Well, summing up MMXIX can easily stand up againstVOODOO`s debut album. Is this recording better or worse? Well, listen to it yourselves and tell me what you think. I like them both, to be honest. This new album won’t disappoint you so get this right now from the band themselves: https://voodoo.net.pl/

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