More than three years have passed since the release of the German power metal band’s previous album, Wall of Skulls, and the band is finally ready with the follow-up, which marks their first album to feature bassist Jim Ramses, as well as their first album on Reigning Phoenix Music.

That said, Brainstorm’s latest offering sees the band continuing down the well-established power metal path. Plague of Rats delivers what is expected from the band, meaning it is an energetic power metal album packed with guitar hooks and infectious melodic choruses. On the new album, the band digs back into their fascination with Indian culture, much like they did on some of their earlier records. This is reflected in the lyrical themes and is also woven into the Eastern musical influences throughout the album.

These influences may have been less prominent on the previous few albums, but they have always been a part of the band’s music, especially in those crucial melodic structures.

Speaking of melodies, they have always been one of the most defining elements of the band’s music, and they remain a key feature on this album as well. Andy B. Franck is sharp in his delivery, and his knack for twisting catchy melodies adds unpredictability, without compromising their catchiness. On the contrary, his approach makes the melodies stand out as even more recognizable. This is one of the reasons why Brainstorm’s music stands out in comparison to the endless line of power metal bands out there.

Staying on the topic of vocals, the album also features a couple of guest appearances courtesy of Leaves’ Eyes’ Elina Siirala on “Your Soul That Lingers In Me” and Alex Krull on “From Hell.” The first of these is a classic of the genre, which works well, but doesn’t steer the song in any new direction. “From Hell,” while also a classic Brainstorm song, benefits from Krull’s growling vocals, which add intensity to the song without making it stray too far from its comfort zone.

Much like the case was with the previous two albums, Brainstorm delivers the goods, and they do so with ease. The songwriting is intact and on the level you’d expect from the band, meaning that the majority of the songs are extremely well-constructed, creating an overall high-quality album. However, there are a few filler tracks. These are executed well, but fall short of matching the rest of the album, and the bonus track “Celebrate Youth” is downright cringeworthy, despite its noble lyrical argument. On the other hand, “Dark of Light,” “The Shepherd Gil (Gita Vogrinda),” and “Beyond Enemy Lines” hit home runs and are perfect examples of just how good Brainstorm is.

The robust songwriting has always been a cornerstone of Brainstorm’s music, and the band doesn’t disappoint. However, they still struggle to match the level of their first three releases of the 2010s. Perhaps unleashing their creativity in a more complex and epic direction, as well as working on some ballads, would do the trick. Perhaps some other time. Until then, Plague of Rats is sure to be spinning on and on throughout 2025.

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