The fact that I’m writing a review of Baltimoore’s sixth album “Ultimate Tribute” might be considered bad luck for this Swedish band because I don’t like tribute albums. I never have and I probably never will. I don’t care how famous a band is or how much I like the band or the music that is being ‘covered’; I hate tributes! As you probably have noticed I was pretty biased when I had to listen to the “Ultimate Tribute”, the title alone gave me bad chills. There is one other thing you must know about me. I’m very attached to my first impression - but I’m also the first one to adjust my biased vision and admit that I was wrong. This is such a moment. The Baltimoore interpretation of classical hard rock tracks (AC/DC, Rainbow, Hendrix etc) is worth listening to.

These guys don’t just cover the tracks, they live the music and perform it in an unpredictable and yet highly believable way. Of course you will have to get used to the rough vocals of Bjorn Lodin but when you do, you will find that the delightfully played music gains power because of his contribution. The biggest point of criticism is the production of the album. At some times you get the feeling like you’re listening to a five year old LP with some dust on it. “Ultimate Tribute” is an album which you probably like. Even a non believer, just like me, could give this one a chance.