Graceful Degradation

I don't know what they put in the water in Sweden, but for such a small population they have a high proportion of quality bands. Naughty Boys are a prime example - largely on the melodic side but managing to squeeze in a sleazy edge along with some bluesy vibes, their second album Destiny Calls is a solid, addictive, and hard rocking ride.

Title track and album opener Destiny Calls is gritty, dirty, and instantly appealing. I would never have thought of pianos adding to the heaviness of the sound rather than lightening it, but that's exactly what Valentin manages here. Actually, forget guitar duels for a bit, the duels between piano and Hasse's guitars throughout the album give Naughty Boys a pretty much unique sound. Mellow, melodic and wistful for the opening of ballad Eternity, the piano is later challenged by a restrained guitar solo, while Don't Turn Around makes a real feature of the two.

Ludde's drums are pretty hot too, well-judged on both the higher octane and the slower tracks and always making their presence felt without being overpowering. He's complimented by some solid bass work, largely hidden in the mix but giving the heavier edge to the likes of Time. And it's all rounded off by the vocals of Micke. Seductive at times, gravelly at others, he makes for a great lead.

Stand out track? Well, I think for me it's going to be Endless Pain, heavier in style, solid hooks, and kind of brooding at times. But I couldn't name a bad track on this album, it's pretty strong from start to finish. Definitely worth a listen or ten.