About.com Rating

If you like Ronnie James Dio, then you’ll really dig Swedish heavy metal crusaders Astral Doors’ sixth release Jerusalem. The engine that powers Astral Doors is the remarkable vocals of Nils Patrick Johansson (Lion’s Share, Wuthering Heights).

Johansson doesn’t sound exactly like Ronnie James Dio —he possesses more of a raspier, rougher vocal delivery — but he sure does conjure up the demons and wizards imagery and spirit that Dio perfected.


Jerusalem is a dose of classic heavy metal in the same vein as Dio-fronted Rainbow and Sabbath material, as well as his own solo stuff. Its full-flavored riffs and catchy, anthemic choruses are highlighted by keyboards and a solid rhythm section. Although not considered a true conceptual album, Jerusalem’s historically political and religious lyrical slant permeates the album’s underlying theme. The material is actually a bit more darker and moodier than the band’s previous releases.

Songs that cater to the above mentioned lyrical themes include: anti-Christian/religious (“Seventh Crusade”, “Jerusalem”), war/battle (“The Battle of Jacob’s Ford”, “Operation Freedom”), history (“Pearl Harbor”) and the allegiance of rock (“Child of Rock ‘N’ Roll”).

The music is heavy yet melodic, but the riffs are somewhat bland and rehashed. The power and energy is there, but the song construction is a bit predictable. The anthemic choruses are sure catchy, and If you don’t mind Johansson’s Dio-like vocals, then you will surely dig the spirit, mood and energy the band puts forth on Jerusalem.

(released January 31, 2012 through Metalville Records)

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.