KINGS CROWN – Closer to the Truth

The Swedish hard rockers known as Kings Crown recently released this deftly executed and well-written opus of theirs titled Closer to the Truth, and the actual truth is that this album rules from top to bottom.

Boasting a loud and crisp sound that is quite heavy thanks to the solid and hard-hitting rhythm section, the stellar line-up delivers atmospheric and powerful songs with impossibly catchy choruses and strong vocal melodies to them, and the wicked use of Hammond lends a lovely 70s vibe to the proceedings. The majestic tune named ‘Your Servant’ is a perfect example of how to craft a stately and riveting track that sweeps you off your feet without sounding pompous, cliched, or overblown. The groovy sledgehammer that is ‘Still Alive’ is another highlight that ought to be played endlessly on the radio or belted out onstage as it slays from beginning to end. In addition, the aura of the recording is rather organic, and if you close your eyes while listening to it you could be fooled into thinking that they are playing right in front of you in that very same room. And did I mention that singer Lee Small is firing on all cylinders throughout?

Closer to the Truth is brilliant and irresistible stuff that could easily appeal to fans of Bad Company, Rival Sons, Free, and the Coverdale-fronted version of Deep Purple, and those are just a few examples right off the top of my head.