The Murder of My Sweet graces us with their 5th studio album, Brave Tin World, and the Swedish symphonic metal band holds nothing back! The band’s vision for their music is to create a “distorted film noir vibe” (their name comes from the title of a 1944 noir movie) and with each new release, they have been successful in that! Press play, close your eyes, and be immersed in what could easily be mistaken as a movie soundtrack – combining lyrics of everyday issues of modern life with the thundering, emotional melodies that symphonic metal brings.

Angelica Rylin is the main vocalist of TMOMS, and her singing is both theatrical and soothing at the same time. Her voice, combined with the backup vocals of Daniel Flores (who is also keyboardist, drums, and in charge of the strings arrangements) glide smoothly with the bouncy yet rocking music! Christopher Vetter (Acoustic/Electric guitars) and Patrik Janson (bass) complement perfectly the keyboards, at times adding a dramatic flair to the energetic beats. All members together form the perfect harmony to create music that is sure to please everyone, regardless if you’re a metalhead or someone who enjoys the latest song on the radio.

“Tin Soldiers” is the first track on the album, and also the longest, clocking in at 6:27 (all the tracks clock in at more than 3 and a half minutes, and worth every second!) This was the perfect track to lead off, and best encapsulates the whole band’s sound. If I had to give you one song only to describe TMOMS, this would be it – harmonious vocals, a great blend of every instrument, and Rylin’s vocals emphasizing the words at the right time. “My Religion” continues the modern day issues theme, and “Head of the Snake” will have everyone grooving! “Reasons To Live” will catch you in singing along with the lines, a very uplifting tune. “Safe In The Shadows” changes the mood, being a ballad that could bring tears to the listener. “Hit the Ground” showcases a heavier vibe, and Rylin contributes almost a jazzy tune to the lyrics – this is the best showcase of her vocals on the album, and I think everyone can find something to like here. “Everyone Wins” is a lovely avante-garde song that again changes the vibe of the album; This may be my favourite track, as its harmonious vocals and haunting noises blend awesomely with the dark carnival-like melody. We continue to “Momento”, another ballad with memorable lyrics and a melancholy vibe. If there’s one track that comes off as the heavier, “Keeper of the Flame” is it. Pronounced beat coupled with the guitars make for a track that’s both for headbanging and dancing. “Worth Fighting For” continues the symphonic elements and cinematic theme in the music. The album finishes with “Alchemy of Sins”, an almost bluesy track that reminds more of the 80s ballad track that you’d hear as a movie ends (which is fitting, as it winds down and finishes the record.)

All in all, Brave Tin World has shown the maturity and growth of the band from their previous albums. They continue to hone in their talents and perfect the arts of giving the listener both catchy hooks and a theatrical play from start to end. TMOMS balances both heavy and light music, creates harmonious vibes with vocals and music, and continues to be strong in the symphonic metal genre while adding elements of various genres, such as prog, avante-garde, and even pop. Here’s to a well mixed album that will cater to everyone’s delight!

I’m Music Magazine Writer Bridget Taylor