ABSOLVA – Justice (2025 Rocksector records)

Here on Absolva’s latest album Justice, the band have come up with a strong crop of new songs featuring some cool guests, such as Ronnie Romero of Rainbow and Stu Block from Iced Earth.  Blaze Bayley fans take note that the man himself sings lead on “Atlas (War Between the Gods)”!  Blaze has effectively utilized members of Absolva in his own solo band, and fans worldwide have grown to love the brothers Appleton, Chris and Luke.  The band is completed by Martin Mcnee on drums, and Karl Shramm on bass.

Major standout track “Hero In Your Life” really shows what a strong singer Chris Appleton is.  Yes there are guest vocalists here, but do Absolva really need anyone outside themselves?  Chris combines rasp with a pleasing voice, with enough power to do these songs “justice” (see what we did there?)  “Hero In Your Life” is replete with blazing solos.  (As is “Left Behind”.)  Both Chris and Luke are credited on lead guitar on the album, so one must conclude that both of these guys can rip.  They can also write catchy, classic sounding riffs.  The total package!  Check out “The City is Burning” for an example of some cool riffs.

The mighty Ronnie Romero appears on “Find My Identity”, a dark vibed rocker.  Romero brings his trademark powerful rasp to the fore, which is a welcome flavour.  He is a seriously great vocalist and his addition here was a stroke of genius.

Another standout is “Justice” the title track, which again features some pretty incredible and memorable solo work, like a mini composition.  The chorus is also pretty powerful.

Of course, it goes without saying that Blaze’s track is magnificent.  It sounds like Blaze, which makes sense, but hearing Blaze and Chris sing lead together is a pretty cool moment.  Their styles contrast.  Blaze delivers the chilling lows, while Chris accents him from up high.  A great song that could easily take its place with Blaze’s best.

A strong metal album.  It combines classic metal sounding riffage with modern styles and production.  It has the sheen and power that you desire, so check out some Absolva.

3.5/5 stars