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I was suitably impressed with debut From The Cradle To The Brave by Norway's Highland Glory. It's safe to say that I was very interested in hearing a second album and that's where sophomore effort Forever Endeavour comes in. Immediately you can tell things are better. For one the production sounds a hell of a lot better, secondly the songs are a lot stronger. I always saw these guys as a poor man's Lost Horizon and you can still hear the influence throughout Forever Endeavour, particularly the vocals of current Saint Daemon vocalist Jan Thore Grefstad.

What we have in store is 10 tracks of well played, well written, classic Power Metal. What I really like about this album is that it's played so well, never overtly flashy, the keys are perfect in the mix and the melodies are great; catchy as hell with hooks to spare. Of course, you could call this generic Power Metal; I'd be the first to agree. It's the fact that these guys put so much conviction into what they do that makes this release such an enjoyable endeavor. Hell I even enjoyed the ballads on display. Stronger tracks such as "Edge Of Time", the title track, or glorious opener "Spirit Of Salvation" cement everything I've stated thus far. The subtle use of keys reminds me a lot of Lost Horizon and that's always a good thing, considering how high in regard I hold them. "Demon Of Damnation" is particularly impressive, fronting every asset in their arsenal for a sublime album closer.

The European version contains three bonus tracks - all covers - which are pretty good but to be honest I could've done without. All in all though, Forever Endeavour is a top album, definitely worth a look in if you're serious about Power Metal. Recommended