Almost four years have passed since Swedish thrash metal group Raise Hell released an album. As you may know, this group was formed back in 1996 under the name In Cold Blood. However, the band quickly changed their name into the current one just before the release of their debut album in 1998. The latest offering by this group introduces few changes - most notable being the new singer Jimmy Fjällendahl, whose voice shares slight resemblance to Charles Rytkönen of Morgana Lefay. As with many groups, line-up changes slowed down this band from releasing a new album. In addition the change of label hindered the release of this record until 2006.

The music of Raise Hell is trash metal with a growing focus on melodies. Song material on City of the Damned is fairly steady in terms of quality, though I must admit few songs stand out from the rest. For example, the album starts with an eerie song Devil's Station, which really grabs the listener's attention. Despite that the majority of songs are rather good, at times there are less fortuitous sections as well. The production on this record is quite good, though a bit raw. However, it actually suits the album's atmosphere really well. All in all, Raise Hell's comeback with a new singer is somewhat successful, and proves that this group still has potential.

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- MAGE (November 11th, 2006)

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LINE-UP:
Fjällendahl, Jimmy: Vocals Nilsson, Jonas: Guitars Kulo, Joakim: Guitars Sjöstrom, Niklas: Bass Ekdahl, Dennis: Drums
Producer:	Fjällendahl, Jimmy: Vocals Nilsson, Jonas: Guitars Kulo, Joakim: Guitars Sjöstrom, Niklas: Bass Ekdahl, Dennis:
Mixing by:	Unavailable
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Devil’s Station 02. City of the Damned 03. Like Clowns We Crawl 04. Reaper’s Calling 05. Open Your Mind 06. Ghost I Carry 07. My Shadow 08. To the Gallows 09. I 10. Rising Length: 45:30