Bjorn Strid is one of the most powerful vocalists in the melodeath world. But when he’s not busy fronting the melodic death metal machine of Soilwork, he lends his pipes to a very different kind of project. Along with Soilwork guitarist David Andersson and Arch Enemy bassist Sharlee D’Angelo, Strid is part of the Swedish classic rock supergroup The Night Flight Orchestra. The name itself is a misnomer as the band is most definitely not an orchestra but a really great blend of 70’s style classic and prog rock doing it all for the love of the music. Their newest release “Amber Galactic” out via Nuclear Blast is a phenomenal album of well constructed, radio friendly classic rock tunes.
The record is chock full of terrific classic rock guitar riffs, soaring stadium rock choruses, and melodic hooks. Strid’s vocals are front and center in the mix with clean melodic leads and a sound that is absolutely amazing. There’s a great mix of hard hitting rockers like “Star of Rio” and “Midnight Flyer” as well as the danceable groove of “Domino.” Keyboardist Richard Larssen does some fantastic work with the spacey vibe of “Gemini” and the proggy runs on “Saturn In Velvet.” Don’t miss the rockin’ “Josephine” or the early KISS feel of “Sad State of Affairs.”
“Amber Galactic” was a pleasant surprise and is a record that would have felt right at home on any AOR radio station in the late 70’s. Its Styx meets KISS meets Boston sound is a must listen for all classic rock fans. Pop this one on in your car stereo and be ready for one hell of a ride.
