CD review of 'Dead Letters' by Rasmus (From Barry And District News)

CD review of 'Dead Letters' by Rasmus

ALREADY massive stars in their native Finland, the Rasmus have taken a while to break into the international scene.

Their debut album 'Dead Letters', referring to post that never reaches its goal, is catchy.

With 12 full-bodied tracks, the band manages to carry its distinctive sound through each song without making them sound same-ish.

Having released In the Shadows already, the remaining tracks are all strong enough to come out as singles.

They have a leaning towards the power ballads of the 80s, and if that's what they set out to do, then mission accomplished.

But that doesn't mean they can't keep up with their contemporaries. While they have found a style all of their own (epitomised by lead singer Lauri's unique dress sense), they easily rub shoulders with the likes of Evanescence and could probably hold their own in a play-off with Bon Jovi - maybe.