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Ever since vocalist Nitte Valo left Finnish powerhouse Battle Beast, everyone has been wondering how the band would be able to replace her powerful and unique vocals. Enter Noora Louhimo who is, believe it or not, equally as great as Nitte, if not even slightly better with a wider vocal range.

Battle Beast have gotten a lot of exposure since they signed a deal with Nuclear Blast Records. The label has pushed the band hard and, when listening to their self-titled second album, I don't wonder at all why. To my ears, Battle Beast has continued from where they left off on their well-received debut album from two years ago. Not much has changed, though the band's playing has gotten tighter and their sense for catchy, hook-filled songwriting has increased drastically. Each of the 13 songs recorded for this new opus flows effortlessly, possessing choruses that other musicians could only dream of, or would even kill for. The whole album is quite an up-tempo affair for fans of 80's nostalgic Heavy Metal. Classic licks inspired by bands like Accept, Manowar, Judas Priest, Dio-era Rainbow and such and accompanied with a modern twist. The musicianship is definitely top-notch and the band's new front lady Noora seems to have added a new gear to the Battle Beast machine with her raspy, Udo-like vocal delivery. Her voice is quite similar to Nitte's, so I don't see her disappointing anyone who liked Battle Beast's debut.

Battle Beast's follow up to their debut is full of songs that contain sheer hit potential. If I was forced to pick my favorites, I would go with the opener, "Let It Roar," which introduces us to Noora's whole vocal range, the powerful and anthemic "Kingdom," the Accept-flavored "Over the Top" and the pompous "Black Ninja." Then again, my favorite cuts change on a daily basis, as the whole album reeks of all kinds of greatness.

You want me to recommend this album to someone? How about everyone!