Clown in the Mirror

Clown in the Mirror is the second album on which, around André Andersen’s outstanding keyboards, Royal Hunt more vividly puts forward neoclassical speed and dramatic, memorable melody. Welcoming the new vocalist, the soaring, expressive D.C. Cooper, his dramatic voice adds new appeal to the band. Guitar and keyboards, not merely competing in technique, intertwine tightly to heighten the songs’ narrative. From the development from the opening intro to “Wasted Time” and the drama of the title track “Clown in the Mirror” to the powerful “Ten to Life,” every song is engaging, while cuts like “On the Run” and “Bodyguard” convey the work’s fullness. Gorgeous arrangement that never fears grandiosity and memorable choruses coexist, and each song vividly changes its scene like a small stage play. A record on which the band’s firm character clearly settled by pulling together outstanding technique, symphonic, gorgeous color and accessible hooks in one clear direction. Following the moments where the keyboards powerfully reinforce the riffs and where the harmony rises dramatically just before the choruses, its theatricality comes through more deeply. A powerful, engaging record showing early fullness welcoming D.C. Cooper.