Die Apokalyptischen Reiter

Die Apokalyptischen Reiter ("the four horsemen of the apocalypse") return with their seventh full-length album, finally available in North America a year after its original European release. Even without the six U.S. bonus tracks (four live, two studio), Licht is a strong album. The Riders, as the band are often called, blend the attack and drive of thrash/heavy metal (and the odd remnant of their more death metal days) with the good, wholesome delightfulness of power metal. These guys have a knack for blurring the lines and creating enjoyable, catchy music with a dose of the unexpected. Although there are some solid ballads, it's mostly their up-tempo pieces that are immediately satisfying ― after a few listens, the various layers become more evident. Despite some dry bits and running a little long, the Riders possess good melodic sensibility and tons of energy, making Licht an excellent record.