Imperanon is definately a good band, each song is a bit repetitious, but the lead thats repeating is fucking awesome. (Blade, Stained, Shadowsouls, etc.) Their solos need a bit of work, and other than the vocals being similar to Alexi all I can sense in thsi band is guitar/keyboard work that definately is influenced by Alexi/Janne, with a Norther-esque rhythm sound. Their songwriting is completely different than Alexi, focusing more on sweeps, and obviously not having the bombastic approach that Alexi does in his soloing (Although there are a few bends and patterns that mimic alexi's at times). I think they fucking kick ass and never get bored listening to their CD.
Kalmah definately kicks ass, I've loved them since the day I first heard them (Swamphell and Alteration). Heroes to Us has always been my favorite song due to the diversity in song structure, slow parts, awesome melodies, shredding, kick ass drums. Everything is in that song.. So it remains my favorite. As I have heard Kalmah is similar to COB (which is what peaked my interest) I really believe that they are totally different in their own respect. The sheer tone and sound of their guitars, song composition, vocals, keyboard.. Everything. So yea, another kick ass band.
Another thing, why the bashing of T,L, & S all the time? Knuckleduster and TLS I think are pretty well written songs. The solos in Knuckleduster are awesome and interesting. The fast soling into the melodic main riff back into shredding, reminds of the old Bodom After Midnight Days and Sinergy's Suicide by my Side (the Sin trade, Suicide by my side, etc). But yea, give it a chance, obviously the solo battles will be better, Janne, Alexi, and Roope shredding it up. it gives so many possibilities. And as for people assuming it'll turn either into "nu metal" bullshit or just revert to Sinergy, I really doubt it would. COB has such a much more raw energetic feel to their music and solos and Sinergy is just.. Amazing.. I can't describe it. This just adds more solos, with a harder edge to them then in Sinergy. Kind of like some of Alexi's crazy shit in Kylähullut. Plus, with the addition of Janne on keys, anythings possible, and most likely there will be alot more harmonizations. I don't know, I'm still anticipating the new album and still have hope. It'll be good.
Sorry for length.
