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Universe Infinity: Rock Is Alive
Universe Infinity - Rock Is Alive Music Review

Universe Infinity: Rock Is Alive

Melodic Hard Rock/Metal
4.0/5.0

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Pride & Joy Music
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 30.03.2018

The history of Universe Infinity begins with its first incarnation in 1982, simply known as Universe. Several years later, in 1985, the band dropped their self-titled debut which yielded several popular singles. They had material for a second album, but it never happened and the band dissolved in 1988. Fourteen years later, guitarist Per Nilsson got the band back together for a reunion show, which sparked interest in creating new music. While remaining in contact with each other nothing came of this until vocalist Andreas Eklund (ex-House Of Shakira) joined the band. Changing their name to Universe Infinity, the band returns with their long-awaited comeback album Rock Is Alive. Releasing on the same day, 13 April, will be a reissue of their self-titled first album.

Universe Infinity Band Photo

Universe Infinity

I have no recollection of Universe, so I have no idea how they once sounded some thirty-odd years ago. Today, Universe Infinity delivers melodic hard rock with a significant metal edge. Mostly the latter comes from the booming bottom end of the rhythm section, but also from the sharp twin guitar riffage. Rock Is Alive is truly a guitar forward album. The riffs rule the songs, and the solos are blistering and abundant throughout the album. Though this description fits all the songs, good examples come with Catch Of My Life and Born In Flames which both begin with a bristling guitar start before leading into fast paced rockers. Quick pacing is also another characteristic of the songs, with the title cut a prime example of rock groove driven by speed.

Other songs of interest are We Were Just Dancing and Lady Luck, where both songs begin with a huge percussive drum start. With She Can't Get Enough you'll hear a little blues vibe, notably in Andreas Eklund voice, but also somewhat in the guitar lines. Surprisingly, there are no ballads here, which you often expect to find with a band rooted in classic Eighties hard rock. No matter. With their comeback album Rock Is Alive, Universe Infinity delivers a strong and consistent album of guitar-centered and metal-infused melodic hard rock. If that's your thing, you will not be disappointed with this album. Recommended.



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The Bottom Line

With their comeback album Rock Is Alive, Universe Infinity delivers a strong and consistent album of guitar-centered and metal-infused melodic hard rock. If that's your thing, you will not be disappointed with this album. Recommended.

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