With “Game of Faces“, Dynazty delivers yet another solid entry in their discography, but without any real surprises. The Swedish band’s ninth album sticks to their well-established formula: powerful melodic metal with sharp riffs, polished arrangements, and, most notably, Nils Molin’s exceptional vocals, which remain as flawless as ever.
Despite the band’s undeniable talent, “Game of Faces” doesn’t stray far from what they’ve already done before. Each track is well-crafted and energetic, yet there’s a lingering sense of déjà vu, an album that, while enjoyable, feels like a refined rehash of past works.
The title track, “Game of Faces“, stands out as one of the strongest songs on the album, featuring a catchy and well-crafted chorus that makes it a highlight. Similarly, “Call of the Night” delivers a powerful and energetic refrain, hitting hard with its intensity. “Devilry of Ecstasy” follows the same intense path, while “Die to Survive” continues in this direction but lacks that extra spark needed to truly stand out.
“Dark Angel” starts off in an intriguing way, hinting at a track that could break the mold and bring something fresh to the album. Unfortunately, it ultimately gets lost in the mix, failing to distinguish itself from the rest. The same can be said for “Dream of Spring“, it begins with potential, but never fully develops into something memorable. Even “Mystery“, which kicks off with a strong and energetic intro, ends up fading into the background, unable to leave a lasting impact.
With this album, Dynazty plays it safe and stays within their comfort zone. It’s a bit disappointing, as their previous records always had standout tracks that left a lasting impression. Here, everything starts to blend together, making the album feel somewhat repetitive. The band’s skill is undeniable, Nils Molin is an incredible vocalist, and his bandmates are all talented musicians, but something is missing. They seem to have held back from taking creative risks, and that lack of innovation is evident throughout.
Fans of Dynazty will certainly appreciate the musicianship and high production value, but those hoping for something fresh may find themselves a bit let down.