Back to the '80s is the title of this Italian band's third album (not counting a re-recording of their second release) since they formed back in 2008. While undoubtedly heavy metal, on this album Megahera have come up with a sound that isn't like a lot of other bands. Guitars, bass, drums and some keys aren't unusual, but the songwriting features a lot of major chord progressions, which is generally associated with an upbeat sound, yet the lyrics often have a darker edge, creating an interesting contrast. Songs like "I'm Not Your Puppet" and "Tommyknockers" embody this style and the closest analogy I can give is Walpyrgus. They aren't afraid to take more chances, like the middle section of "Demiurge Hunting" where the keyboards sound like those in The Beatles' "Strawberry Fields Forever" or the very laid back, melodic breakdown in the opener "Berserker's Arise." My first few trips through Back to the '80s left me wondering exactly what I was listening to, but it is an album that has grown on me each time I hit repeat. It has a "hit or miss" quality, but if you like '80s metal and are looking for something that isn't painted with the same palette as a lot of other metal today, I suggest giving Megahera a good, long listen.