Gotthard are a melodic rock band that appeared right at the height of grunge (now that’s a novelty) in ’92 and have since recorded 14 studio albums. This is their eighth album, released in 2007.

They are from Switzerland and every album they have released has gone to number in their home country. Now, that’s very impressive and yet, I’m stunned how many people have never heard anything by them when I bring them up in conversation.

Founded by guitarist Leo Leoni and vocalist Steve Lee, they have consistently put out killer albums that deserve a place in your collection, and this album is one of my favourites. Full to the brim of killer tunes it’s really hard to pick a favourite track. Yup, there are ballads, but they fit perfectly into the running order of the album and with Steve’s voice they definitely pull at the heart strings.

I’m going to cheat here and pick three favourite songs because this album is so freaking good: Master Of Illuison, The Cruiser, and Bad To The Bone. Each one is a banger, with killer riffs, huge hooks and choruses, and you’ll be wondering why these guys aren’t a household name (well, they are in Switzerland).

You should definitely search this one out as it’s a nailed on banger.

10/10 from The Grooveman.