Reviewed by Andy Shaw

When a band has been going for as long as Sweden's Blindside have it can be difficult to keep producing killer albums and the last 10 years for Blindside seem to have lacked that spark that launched them into the mainstream with the 2002 release of 'Silence'. In recent years though the band have had a lengthy sabbatical and this is Blindside's first full length release for six years. It has been well worth the wait. For those hoping for a heavy, aggressive metal record you'll be disappointed but this album has such depth and variety that it captivates you from start to finish. The opener "There Must Be Something In The Water" kicks the album into life from the off with classic roaring vocals and, along with "Bring Out Your Dead" and "Withering", present the heavier end of the spectrum on this album. What makes this album so engaging is the blend of this heavy side with the likes of the unashamedly poppy "Our Love Saves Us" and the bubbly beats of "Bloodstained Hollywood Ending". This album may well divide opinion with fans of the heavier, more metal influenced early Blindside albums disappointed by the more poppy sound. Don't let this put you off though as 'With Shivering Hearts. . .' demonstrates thought provoking lyrics and an inventive and well balanced selection of styles and sounds which go to make a complete and polished piece of work.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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Blindside formed in 1994 as friends fresh out of high school in Stockholm, Sweden.

15 years, five albums and hundreds of shows in more than 25 countries later, Blindside are ready to revolutionise the rock scene with their highly-anticipated release With Shivering Hearts We Wait.

While their fans know them as a blistering rock powerhouse that combines both introspective lyrics with an intense, yet melodic sound, Blindside’s main goal remains. “It’s always been about trying to get a positive message out there, some kind of hope. That’s the main purpose in both writing music and playing live. We want our fans to know hope.”