Masquerage – Atomic Spies

Masquerage
Atomic Spies
Label: Stormspell Records / Inverse Records
Out: 29^th May 2026
Playing time: 42:58

The Finnish Melodic Heavy Metal band Masquerage has been active since 1998, though initially under the name ‘The Unchained’. The band changed its name in 2000. Between 1998 and 2000, they released three demos. Even under the new name, only five demos were initially released, until 2007 when the time was ready for the debut album ‘Work-Holic-Fool’. Just one year later, the follow-up ‘Moonlight Time’ hit the record shops. After three further albums up to 2018, there was a creative break, at least as far as the release of new material was concerned. Eight years later, the wait is finally over. In May, the sixth album, ‘Atomic Spies’, will see the light of day. Apparently, three founding members are still on board. Only bassist Ossi Raiski has been playing with Masquerage since 2014 (with a one-year break).

A piano melody underpinned by heavy riffs introduces the epic power ballad ‘On The Edge Of Beliefs’. Guitarist and singer Kimmo Perämäki is impressive, both vocally and instrumentally. On the title track ‘Atomic Spies’, the Finns really let rip, driven by the drums. ‘The Devil To Pay’ is also played at a fast pace, but it doesn’t quite match the high tempo of the previous song. The vocals sound a bit harsh in places. On the stadium anthem ‘In The Vault’, the band’s AOR roots come through clearly. ‘By Design’ follows with classic 80s Hard Rock. ‘Everfrost’ also leans in the same direction, albeit with a much more anthemic feel. In contrast, the guitars really fry in ‘The Healthiest Man To Die’. ‘Pain Of Punishment’ is another great Hard Rock anthem. Finally, ‘Waves’ brings 80s AOR to the fore.

‘Atomic Spies’ is a very good AOR / Hard Rock / Power Metal album. Masquerage present the listener with a fresh sound that’s a joy to listen to right from the start.

Masquerage – The Devil To Pay: https://youtu.be/yrAUK4ePL7E?si=-Q120LgyA-rbR9cC

Lineup:

Kimmo Perämäki – Guitar & Vocals
Ossi Raiski – Bass
Mika Maunus – Keyboards
Marko Ylä-Häkkinen – Drums

Track list:

• On The Edge Of Beliefs
• Atomic Spies
• The Devil To Pay
• In The Vault
• By Design
• Everfrost
• The Healthiest Man To Die
• Pain Of Punishment
• Waves