Node is an Italian melodic death metal band and if you like the last In Flames (Clayman), the odds are big you gonna like this one.

While the opener is a killer (Hystory Seeds), there is also no doubt Node is influenced by the best ever melodic death metal band ... At The Gates. This Sweatshops, which goes fast, is a wonderful moment of adrenaline and melodies. Of course, Node is not able to do better, they just remember us how At The Gates will be ever remembered (why the hell Anders and Jonas Bjorler have broken this band ... ).

Second track (Jerry Mander) starts fast and the Metallica/Testament thrash guitar riff adds even more this "hit-a-brick-of-wall-while-head-banging" feeling. The vocals are dark and full of hate (a bit more compare to In Flames). I should also mention the great chorus of Sacristan' Scorn Towards Water (third track), which reminds me the atmosphere used by Rage on their record, XIII.

Forth track (Bloody Hills) sees the arrival of Iron Maiden's guitar melodies (again like In Flames did on Clayman) and it confirms this Sweatshops is the best release Node have done 'til their beginning (back in 1996). And it goes like this from the beginning until the end : fast, aggressive, melodic, very melodic. I have been also impressed by the musicians who know how to use their instruments (9th track proves this guys have a lot of talent, instrumental track).

In direct line with the last Dew-Scented, Sweatshops, which has been produced by the metal-guru Pelle Saether (Necrodeath, Carnal Forge, Terror 2000), is simply excellent. You like melodic death metal, don't miss this band as this record should logically be part of your metal collection near Death, Carcass, At The Gates, Dew-Scented or In Flames.

A very nice surprise ;-)