Notify all the retro bands that Sweden's The Dagger have won the game with their self titled release. Consisting of ex-members of Dismember (Tobias Cristiansson, Fred Estby and David Blomqvist) with Jani Kataja on vocals one would think anything but a revival of 70's rock and traditional 80's metal. Every song exudes soulful and energetic vocals with charged twin guitar and contagious riffs. The powerful and bluesy driven rhythm section primed with classic era production create a masterful 10 track debut. Influences abound like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Rainbow. Songs that stick with you include Ballad of an Old Man and Nocturnal Triumph.