It's common for a band that their second album does not live up to the hype or the expectations established by their debut. It is often defined as the dreaded sophomore slump. To change singers after your debut can point to warning signs. A lot of bands would not be able to overcome writing their follow up album while incorporating a new approach. With the release of their second album ?The Gift of Life? through Finland's Spinefarm Records, Sweden's DREAMSHADE are out to prove that they are ready to return with a vengeance.

On their debut ?What Silence Hides?, DREAMSHADE's sound seemed to fall more into the dreaded Metalcore genre. Original singer Iko's vocal cadence and style leaned towards a standard Metalcore sound. On ?The Gift Of Life? they have kept some of their Metalcore tendencies but have added more of a melodic Death Metal feel to their approach. Where their first album seemed to share more in common with KILLSWITCH ENGAGE their new direction is more in the style of Denmark's RAUNCHY. New singer Kevin utilizes a more melodic approach and relies on this style more frequently. His aggressive vocals also seem to have more direction and consistency and overall his voice is much stronger.

After a brief mellow guitar intro, album opener and first single ?Photographs? comes pounding in with a heavy syncopated guitar riff backed by a gorgeous guitar melody. Starting out with the catchiest, grooviest song right off the bat was a smart way to showcase Kevin's new vocals. The chorus will be stuck in your head long after the record is over. ?Photographs? stands out for the different styles presented throughout the song. We have aggressive vocals, mellow guitars, syncopated heavy guitars and a great lead section, a perfect way to introduce a listener to their sound.

The stars of DREAMSHADE are clearly guitar players Rocco and Fella. Not only will their riffs tear your head off they are also the masters at playing guitar melodies behind the rhythm. I cannot emphasize this enough. It is all over the record and it brings a new and exciting listen each time. At the ending of ?Late Confessions? the band gives them some leeway to shred making it a clear high spot of the record. The guitar players are so talented they need to add additional solo sections for them to shine and stand centre stage.by Drago