Imagine a cocktail of progressive metal complexity, powermetal melodies and the speed and aggression of death. What you get is ‘TheHours That Remain’ from Danish group Mercenary.

I must admit I thought I wouldn’t like this album at first, perhaps something to do with Mikkel Sandager’s epic (remarkable as they are) vocals, but I surrendered to the outstanding songwriting, the excellent arrangements and the great mixture of deathy and the aforementioned epic vocals (Sandager’s range is incredible). In addition Soilwork's Bjorn "Speed" Strid and Heaven Shall Burn's Marcus Bischoff also make guest vocal appearances.

There’s so much to listen to on this album! Mastering the combination of so many elements and making it all flow as if they naturally belonged together, is a talent that only great musicians possess. The Danes certainly deserve more recognition for their impeccable musicianship, hopefully this album will bring them some.

If you’re into complex compositions, diversity of vocal styles but above all great melodies, give this album a spin and while you’re at it, check Mercenary’s excellent previous work ’11 Dreams’. You won’t regret it.