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Norway's Metal/Hard Rock bands have always been more closely associated with the American metal style than the European. Hollow firmly exemplifies that association, sounding like what every US metal fan would want to hear, be it old or "nu" school. Dark Thoughts is Hollow's debut through their small label Fairplay Entertainment.

On Dark Thoughts you can hear Pantera, Metal Church, Motley Crue, Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Ozzy, the list goes on and on. Essentially, these guys do not stick with one sub-genre. Some might argue that robs them of any true identity as they wander between musical styles, however, this diversity is actually the source of their power. Dark Thoughts is intelligent, interesting and has numerous elements that grab your attention aside from heavy riffs. Hollow sets the table for metalheads looking for a buffet of sounds and styles.

Upon first listen the album seems rather complex yet this is not truly accurate. Hollow, in their diversity, adjust their passage to fit the sub-genre they are playing. Take a song like the hard rocking "Goodbye" and compare it with the most diverse song on the album, the title track "Dark Thoughts," and you'll see the differences. The latter tune is dark and intricate with a variety of riffs while the former is an easy living 80s-oriented song of sheer American metal. The songs in between help emphasize why there is a lot to look forward to on Dark Thoughts.

Not everything is exceptional on the album, however. The vocalist, an Ozzy/Marcolin disciple, seems to lack heart at times and the music does not always deliver in the full capacity. Nonetheless, Dark Thoughts is an impressive debut and a wonderful way to mix old with new under the banner of US Metal.

As a US Metal fan, especially of the old school scene, it is great to know there is yet another band that performs in the way of the once powerful US scene. Dark Thoughts is a great addition to the collections of True Metal fans. Take a dive and enjoy!