Shakra, the band from Switzerland, is no news to melodic hard rock/metal fans, since they have already issued seven albums, including their latest endeavor “Everest”. In spite of this fact, it wasn’t until a couple of years ago that they managed to attract some publicity, thanks to the beautiful ballad “Love Will Find A Way”. This way, they earned themselves a spot at Guns ‘n’ Roses’ and Iron Maiden’s Swiss gigs, as the opening act.

“Everest” is the shot at their fifteen minutes of fame, at least in Europe. Considering the fact that their record label -having faith in their potentials- has already produced two video clips to help promote their album, they are liable to succeed. The vocals, the mixing - production, and the first 5-6 compositions reveal the band’s desire to share some of the glory of their godlike compatriots, Gotthard. The latter’s “Domino Effect” springs up in mind from the very first seconds of sound of this album, something that can be no coincidence. On the other hand, this doesn’t mean that they are deprived of a personal musical identity, as well as really rocking songs. The kicking in of the astonishing “Ashes to Ashes” and the ballad “Why” stand out as the highlights of an album that is in general way above the average. Notably, the second part of the album gains in metal elements, therefore adding up to the acoustic pleasure of any quality hard rock/melodic metal fan.

“Everest” has already climbed to the 4^th place of Swiss charts, even though it has only been out for a couple of days, proving that the band’s pain has started translating into gain. They seem bound –and worthy- to reach even higher peaks, assuming that they continue this way. And “Everest” stands as the living proof.