Highway To Hell
Sweden has gained notoriety by producing some of the most modern sounding bands like In Flames and Meshuggah. Hellfueled have a sound that lends itself to the godfather of heavy metal: Ozzy Osbourne and their album was produced by master producer Fredrik Nordstrom (Arch Enemy, Dimmu Borgir and In Flames).
First track 'Let Me Out' has the technical prowess of Zakk Wylde and the blistering solo worthy of Randy Rhoads. 'Midnight Lady' has the bar room stomp of Deep Purple and the gallop of Iron Maiden. The simply titled 'Rock 'n' Roll' has a great groove to it.
Andy Alkman's vocals are surprisingly alike to the Prince of Darkness himself and even though Hellfueled don't rip off licks from Randy Rhoads, it is hard to distinguish the difference between a mere influence and plain plagiarism.
One plus point to this album is there isn't a soppy ballad in sight on this record and Volume One answers (somewhat) the question of what Randy Rhoads and Zakk Wylde would sound like if they were ever to have a booze fuelled jam.
Despite its initial criticisms from Sabbath fans, Volume One has a lot potential behind it. It may not be the genuine article but it has the sheer quality of it.