(Heavy Metal) [CD] System Breakdown - 102 - 2003, FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

System Breakdown, the new side project of Narnia guitarist Carl Johan Grimmark, moves in a mostly straightforward hard rock direction on its 2003 full length debut "102". An intriguing combination of melodic based songwriting and bone crushing heaviness, "102" finds System Breakdown drawing upon influences as diverse as Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, King's X or even Soundgarden to create one of the more unique and creative releases of the year.

Grimmark might not cut loose with any of the lengthy guitar runs characteristic of his material with Narnia but in no way does he make his presence felt any less. System Breakdown introduces a darker and moodier side to Grimmark, his playing coming across in a slower and more blues influenced manner while still packing a more than enough punch and power.

Lead vocalist Pär Hagström brings a raspy but melodic tinged vocal style to the project. Displaying a great deal of versatility, he can hit a Dio-like high note with ease or reach down low and add a measure of grit and gravel to his delivery. Drummer Andreas Johansson (Narnia) puts forth one of his finest showings and combines with the steady bass lines of Karl Persson to create a formidable rhythm section. Keyboardist Ronnie Jaldermark adds just the right amount of touch to each song without coming across heavy handed.

"102" features a good crisp sounding production job with sonics allowing all the instrumentation to stand out in the mix. An effective blend of crunchy rhythm guitar and fluid lead guitar stand alongside a super thick and heavy down tuned low end.

I find the gritty and driving but equally melodic based music of System Breakdown to be a refreshing change of pace. The albums solid production values and creative songwriting only serve to bring out the best in the combined talents of Carl Johan Grimmark and Pär Hagström. On the other hand, "102" is a bit short in coming in at only 38 minutes, but, as the old saying goes, it is the quality and not necessarily the quantity that counts. And "102" does not disappoint by delivering more than its fair share of quality.

Angelic Warlord

Pär Hagström - vocals
Carl Johan Grimmark - guitars, glissentar, mandolin, backing vocals and programming
Ronnie Jaldemark - keyboards
Karl Persson - bass
Andreas Johansson - drums
******
Camilla Holm - female vocals on 4