TEASER SWEET – Night Stalker

Swedish hard rock band Teaser Sweet, who originally began playing Kiss covers, were formed in 2013 by guitarist Marcus Damberg. With the help of his sister, lead vocalist Therese Damberg, the band released three studio albums and one EP. Now through High Roller Records, Teaser Sweet are preparing to release their fourth studio album and follow-up to Monster (2020), Night Stalker (2025). For those who haven’t heard a lick of this band, they’re a blend of classic metal bands such as Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, and Dio. Then, for some pizzazz, throw in a fearless frontwoman who isn’t afraid to do her own thing.

Straight and to the Point Rock ‘n’ Roll

First things first, Night Stalker is the perfect album length, clocking in at roughly 36 minutes. Straight and to the point rock ‘n’ roll. In a surprising twist, however, the album doesn’t start off with a banger. It starts off with a beautiful, one-minute, acoustic instrumental, which transitions nicely into the ferocious title track. A Maiden-type gallop kicks off the next track, “Deep in the Woods,” which is a cross between Judas Priest’s “Traitor’s Gate” and Iron Maiden’s “Purgatory.” Strange combination, yes, but it works.

“Living in Sin” is a major barnstormer on the album with a chugging guitar riff, commanding lead vocals, and that gutsy old school rock ‘n’ roll feel. Quite a contrast from Bon Jovi’s “Living in Sin.” “Killer Machine” is a banger with a great groove, a well-written chorus, and wicked guitar playing. The album closes on a high note with another banger, “Cold is the Fire.”

The Good and the Bad

As for the positives, besides the album length, Night Stalker sounds like an old school rock ‘n’ roll record. The production is perfect, not too raw and not too polished, just right. There’s some great playing on the album from both guitarist Marcus Damberg and bassist Hampus Steenberg. Props to Marcus Damberg’s guitar solos, by the way, especially on “Living in Sin.” With just the guitars, drums, and bass, there’s not much to complain about the musicianship.

As for the negatives, Therese Damberg has a childlike, high-pitched voice, which depending on the song, can sound either brilliantly unique or undeniably annoying. Nothing wrong with having a youthful voice, but too many high notes are never a good thing. Listen to “Eat You Alive” to get a better understanding of that statement. Also, not all of the song arrangements turned out good, unfortunately. “Blue Sky,” for example, starts off as a tasteful, slow blues number, but over halfway through the song, there’s an upbeat rocking section that kills the mood entirely. “Turn Me On” suffers from a poorly written chorus and unpleasant lead vocals from Therese Damberg.

Final Assessment

In the end, everyone hears things differently. There are probably people that like Therese Damberg’s vocals and that’s fine. They’re an acquired taste, like Ozzy Osbourne’s vocals in Black Sabbath and Geddy Lee’s vocals in Rush. Teaser Sweet’s Night Stalker is an enjoyable record, for the most part, because of the band’s sincere love for old school rock ‘n’ roll. If interested, give the album a chance!

Album Tracklist

1. Intro
2. Night Stalker
3. Deep in the Woods
4. Living in Sin
5. Blue Sky
6. Eat You Alive
7. Turn Me On
8. Killer Machine
9. Cold is the Fire

Band Lineup

Therese Damberg – lead vocals
Marcus Damberg – guitars
Hampus Steenberg – bass guitar and backing vocals
Kent Svensson – drums