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Sweden's Bloodbound is a band that I always say I don't like that much then look back at my reviews and realize I've given their past albums universal high marks. Clearly, the band is a bit of an enigma for me. Album #6, Stormborn, continues the trend begun on 2011's Unholy Cross and 2012's In the Name of Metal that coincided with current vocalist Patrick Johannson taking over the microphone duties from Urban Breed. Crunchy, melodic Power Metal is still the name of the game though this time Bloodbound have opted for catchier vocal hooks and extra harmonies. This results in the band sounding a lot more like countrymen Sabaton as well as Deris-era Helloween than, say, Iron Fire or Paragon. At odds with the smoother vocal work are some darker lyrics on tracks like "Satanic Panic," "From the Grave" and "Seven Hells." At the end of the day Stormborn is a rollicking, speedy carnival ride that has the ability to leave you breathless. It is also a ride you've taken more than once at other bands' amusement parks so don't expect any loops or drops you haven't experienced already. Bloodbound still play and write at a high level but it is starting to feel a little repetitive. If you are into crunchy European Power Metal you're still going to want to give Stormborn one (or three) rides.