Album review overview: Nightwish, The Pixies an more

Dozens of new albums arrive at Maxazine’s editorial staff every week. There are way too many to listen to them all, let alone review them. It ensures that too many albums are left behind. And that’s a shame. That is why today we post an overview of albums that arrive at the editors in short reviews.

Photo (c) Jorge Fakhouri Filho

Wild Pink – Dulling The Horns

Wild Pink is an American indie rock band originating from New York. In 2015, the band released its first EP; since then, they have consistently released new material. The band’s earlier albums were associated with Heartland rock, influenced by artists like Tom Petty and Bruce Springsteen. However, with their latest album, “Dulling the Horns”, they claim to be moving towards the style of Neil Young & Crazy Horse, marking a shift in their musical direction. In songs like “Cloud Of Mountain”, the noise rock elements echo Springsteen’s influence, while the Southern vibes of Crazy Horse remain present, though not as dominant. The main difference from their previous album is probably the length. While “ILYSM” lasted about an hour, this new album clocks in just under forty minutes. Whether “Dulling the Horns” will stand the test of time remains to be seen, but it’s enjoyable for what it is. (Rik Moors) (6/10) (Fire Talk Records)

The Pixies – The Night The Zombies Came

35 years after the groundbreaking album “Doolittle”, The Pixies prove they are far from done with their 10th studio album, “The Night The Zombies Came”. The album showcases the band’s evolution while thankfully staying true to their alternative rock roots. The 13 tracks present a cinematic journey, ranging from contemplative ballads to explosive punk anthems. With new bassist Emma Richardson (Band of Skulls), the band injects fresh energy into their iconic sound. Highlights include the title track “Jane (The Night the Zombies Came)” and “Hypnotised”, with their catchy, quirky melodies. “Chicken”, the album’s longest track at 4:23, allows the band to demonstrate their musical progression through genre-blending composition. The Pixies’ storytelling shines through tracks like “Johnny Good Man” and “Kings of the Prairie”, painting vivid tales that complement the album’s cinematic feel. Shorter tracks such as “You’re So Impatient” and “Oyster Beds” harken back to the band’s earlier work. “The Night The Zombies Came” is proof that The Pixies haven’t lost their touch after all this time. (Norman van den Wildenberg) (8/10) (BMG)

Nightwish – Yesterwynde

The Finnish symphonic metal band, with Floor Jansen as the lead vocalist, releases its 10th studio album, “Yesterwynde”. It’s the third album featuring Floor Jansen, whose vocals are more varied than ever. This album requires multiple listens to grasp everything happening within it. Unlike genre contemporaries such as Powerwolf or Hammerfall, where a clear theme can be detected early on, Nightwish’s albums tend to be more complex. Known for their lengthy albums, “Yesterwynde” clocks in at over 70 minutes, packed with intricate compositions. The album returns to the bombastic sound of the past, while also embracing the more streamlined style of recent years. However, some experimental elements, such as the children’s choir in “The Day Off…”, don’t quite hit the mark and could have been omitted. The track “The Children Of ‘Ata” suffers from overuse of industrial drumming and keyboard work, which detracts from the overall experience. On the other hand, the Tongan singing adds to the atmosphere and mystique that “Yesterwynde” conjures. Nightwish confirms with “Yesterwynde” that they remain at the top of the symphonic metal genre. (Ad Keepers) (8/10) (Nuclear Blast Records)

Mick Pini – Papa Voodoo

Despite his immense talent, Mick Pini never achieved superstardom, unlike some of his contemporaries. While he remains relatively unknown to the general public, his peers have spoken highly of him. For instance, Eric Clapton once called him the only legitimate successor to Peter Green. Originally from Leicester, Pini has been living in Germany for quite some time. Although he started playing guitar at fifteen and worked with various bands over the years, he wasn’t truly discovered until later, when Mike Vernon came into the picture. Pini has recorded three albums with Vernon, and throughout his 58-year career, he has released 25 albums, collaborating with artists like B.B. King and opening for legends such as Buddy Guy, Jimmy Rogers, and Freddie King. “Papa Voodoo”, his 26th album, is the third in collaboration with Audio 54, which is essentially Craig Marshall, a fellow Leicester native who is both a musician and producer. The duo has been working together since Pini’s 55th-anniversary CD “Back Track” in 2021. Their collaboration results in a unique mix of ambient, electronic accompaniment, and Pini’s blues guitar. This blend works remarkably well. The album features 14 original tracks, ranging from blues, rock, soul, reggae, and funk. Standout tracks include the title track “Papa Voodoo”, reminiscent of Dr. John’s New Orleans style, the jazzy “Gotta Get My Way Home”, the swinging instrumental “Make It Last”, and the beautiful blues tribute “Blues For Peter Green”. It’s another solid album, full of musical enjoyment. (Eric Campfens) (7/10) (Audio 54)

Ensiferum – Winter Storm

Ensiferum once again proves why they are at the top of Finnish metal with their latest album, “Winter Storm”. Founded by guitarist Markus Toivonen, the band delivers an impressive mix of death, power, and folk metal that grabs you from the start. The opening track “Winter Storm Vigilantes” sets the tone with an overwhelming sound that is sure to give chills in live performances. The production is crystal clear, showcasing each instrument perfectly. A standout track is “Scars in My Heart”, featuring guest vocalist Madeleine Liljestam, whose beautiful contribution contrasts with the powerful metal arrangements. What makes this album special is its accessibility. Even listeners not typically drawn to the genre will find themselves captivated by the sweeping melodies and virtuosic instrumentation. The Viking themes and folk elements blend seamlessly with the metal structures. This is Ensiferum at their best: heavy, melodic, and immersive. “Winter Storm” reinforces the band’s reputation as one of Finland’s leading metal exports. (Jan Vranken) (8/10) (Metal Blade Records)