LECHERY – Violator

According to the dictionary, lechery is unrestrained indulgence in sexual activity. However, it’s also the name of a cool Melodic Heavy Metal band from Sweden. Lechery has just released their debut album entitled Violator.

The band was formed back in 2004 when Martin Bengtsson (guitar/vocals) left Arch Enemy. Some might think that because of the link to Arch Enemy Lechery plays the same kind of Metal, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Violator consists of catchy Melodic Heavy Metal that gives you the good old 80’s feel.

Violator lacks real originality here, but Lechery has still delivered a good Heavy Metal album. Songs like the opener “Rise With Me” and “Hero Of The Night” have big choruses that are extremely catchy and rock in a very groovy way. Bengtsson does a fine job on the vocals and he’s reminiscent at times of Rolf Kasparek (Running Wild).

“I Am The One” is one of the best songs on this record. It starts slow, but picks up some speed after a short while. On this particular song, Bengtsson sounds a bit like Blackie Lawless (W.A.S.P.), so it’s great proof to his voice being very versatile.

“Your Fate” is a bit heavier and darker than the rest of the songs, and the chorus might bring your thoughts to bands like Hammerfall. It has a lot of 80’s vibe to it and rocks steady with a great groove. They even add some double bass drum action at the end of it.

The guitar solos on this record are mostly slow and melodic, but that’s the way it’s supposed to be with music like this. Violator have seen a very fine production and Rickard Bengtsson has done a great job with these guys in the studio.

However, as you listen throughout the album, it becomes a bit boring. Most of the songs rely on the same pattern, and drummer Robert Persson sounds like he’s stuck in the same rhythm a lot of times. The first five songs or so create a good foundation for the record, but the rest of the songs sound mostly like fillers. Lechery has made a good effort here, but it’s just a small step above mediocre.

Lechery

Martin Bengtsson – Guitar/Vocals
Fredrik Nordstrandh – Guitar/Keyboards
Robert Persson – Drums
Martin Karlsson – Bass