'Lustdriven'
2010
Review By Mick 'the beard' Staley
For me, Kiuas are one of the best bands to come out of Scaninavia for a long while, although i read somewhere (written by someone in an anorach), that Finland is technically not part of Scandinavia, but you know what I mean.
Before 'Lustdriven', there have been 4 albums by Kiuas, each one better than the last. 'New Dark Age', for instance had to be one of the best albums of 2009.
'Lustdriven' continues to show us the power and talent of these guys.
It opens with 'Kiuassult' (try saying that when your drunk!), which is a powerful opener and shows of Iljas Jalkanens' vocal talents to the full.
Ilja has a great voice with a wide range, which is put to the test during this album, as the tracks change from power metal to powerful ballads.
Mikkel Salovaarais the main driving force behind the band as he writes all the songs and plays lead guitar, and he is certainly a master riffster.
'Lustdriven' is a different prospect than 'New Dark Age' as it has more variation in style, whereas NDA was more full throttle and in your face.
Kiuas are always trying to push the boundries and attack your senses in different ways, and 'Lustdriven' certainly does that.
If you like your power metal with a Scandiavian twist or like to chill with wonderfully crafted ballads then 'Lustdriven' is for you and if you like this, then check out their back catalogue and like me you will become a Kiuas fan.
