HIM Vampire Heart (Warner) Released 05/12/05

Optimistic piano dinks are soon brushed aside by an abrasive riff on this melodious juggernaut from HIM. Yet despite ‘Vampire Heart’s very ominous title and for all their rock muscle and might, with this the band prove they’re the masters of melodic and very affecting rock song. Searing synths, yearning vocals and quiet segues perfectly complement the dark riffage and makes very a satisfying listen. Still, unlikely to satisfy the warped needs of the more hardcore rock fraternity.