Released by Ruf Records label, “Rock and Roll Soldier” is an untamed, straightforward and high-octane blast of blues-rock coming from Krissy Matthews & The Vikings. The British Norwegian guitar player teams up with his Nordic rhythm section with Trond Hansen on bass and Kåre Amundsen on drums, to capture the genuine mystique experience of a live session but done in studio. Overcoming the urgency and pressure of tracking most of the album in a cramped room under a tight schedule, the band delivers a raw, unpolished sound, free of unnecessary gimmicks, but totally full of an amazing impact for listeners.

Along the whole recording, the band seamlessly moves between classic boogie, rhythm & blues and heavy, powerhouse rock. The title track opens the album with a crushing rhythmic hook, while cuts like their wild rendition of Roosevelt Sykes’ “44 Blues” exude an astonishing intensity, thanks to guest appearances by Will Wilde on harmonica and Ida Maria on vocals.

One of the production’s greatest strengths lies in its stellar lineup of international guests, including the likes of Tommy Castro and Hans Theessink among others, who bring shades of soul and grit without ever disrupting the musical connection of the original trio.

“Rock and Roll Soldier” does not look for artificial avant-garde trends; instead, it firmly relies on pure craftsmanship, explosive guitar work and the special charisma of a band born for the stage.