Review HIGH SPIRITS ‘Safe on the Other Side’

And once again the auditorium fills up when Chris “Professor” Black invites you to a further 41-minute event on the subject of rock and metal. Black founded High Spirits 14 years ago and what began with ‘Another Night’ was continued on three further albums. Each of these albums has been a treat for fans of well-crafted rock and melodic heavy metal and with the new album High Spirits do not deviate from their successful formula. And why should they.

‘Safe on the Other Side’ is the title track of the new album and what stands out once again is the artwork. High Spirits releases always have a special cover design that differs greatly from the typical genre clichés. This makes the records stand out visually from the large number of releases. In the end, however, it’s the music that has to convince and here too Black doesn’t disappoint in any shape or form.
The fifth studio album is packed with songs that immediately captivate the listener. Each of the ten songs picks you up straight away and it doesn’t take 10 spins on the turntable before the tracks reveal their class. On the contrary. You press the ‘start’ button and you are immediately greeted by the pleasant sound of guitars with a great rocḱ spirit.

Black is a master when it comes to melody and hooks. These elements form a common thread throughout the album, whereby Black manages to give the songs the necessary heaviness. As a result, High Spirits never runs the risk of sliding into the mainstream.

‘Safe on the Other Side’ is characterized by ten great songs that are bursting with power and dynamics. Whether you take the anthemic ‘One Day Closer’ or listen to the more epic ‘(There Will Be) Magic Tonight’, each of the ten songs is worth enjoying. Then there’s the throbbing ‘Loving You’ which leads into the very rocking ‘Please Don’t Leave Me Behind’.

With ‘Memories’, High Spirits have also included a cover version on the album. The song was originally done by Europe and was the closer on their debut album. Now High Spirits have given the song a new life and what comes out of the speakers sounds very good. Black stays close to the original and still gives the song a High Spirits touch and feel.

All in all, Chris Black manages to add another great album to his list of achievements with High Spirits. This record is rock and metal in action, meaning that it is based on heart and soul. These songs come straight from the heart and therefore shine with authenticity, which gives the record that certain extra something. Another listening delight from High Spirits.