Review from Metalliville.com. By Glenn Milligan, BA Hons CS

After meeting the great man who is Mr. Malmsteen in Miami, I looked forward to hearing the new album, since Yngwie told us it would contain some of his best work yet and was extremely happy with it.

The line-up for his band 'Rising Force' is spectacular and features Dougie White (ex-Rainbow), on Vocals, Derek Sherinian (ex-Dream Theatre) on Keyboards and fellow Swede, Patrick Johansson on Drums (who we met in Miami also) as well as the Producer/Engineer of the album, 'Tom Fletcher'.

Magical musical and downright breath-taking is an honest way of describing the album. It's nice to see that Yngwie has kept a strong hold on his Viking reigns, although he's lived for many a year in the United States as 'Valhalla' is a glorious tribute to those lost lost galleon days where Dougie gallantly bellows forthwith about fighting, sailing the seas and drinking with the gods. In fact many of the songs recall historic, sometimes fictional moments such as 'Valley of Kings' when 'Gods walked the Earth In the city of a thousand gales' or 'Ship of Fools' which can actually be taken as purely metaphoric.

Big thunderous vocals also come courtesy of Yngwie himself in the Hendrix vivid Blues-Rocker 'Freedom isn't Free' about enjoyed a night with your woman. It's a big musical change to the majority of the album that largely has the ultimate Malmsteen mark 'Symphonic Nee-classical Rockin' Power Metal' but that's completely cool with me and no doubt to the bulk of his fanfare. Overall the material is placed together extremely well and the production is superior to many others out these days thanks to Tom Fletcher'.

Offered up as a real treat to his guitar playing worshipers are 3 instrumental pieces - 'Baroque and Roll' (the title of his once proposed record table), 'Majestic Blue' and 'Air (on a G-string' - a variation on a theme by J. S. Bach. The Japanese 'Pony Canyon' copy of 'Attack !!' adds a bonus track called 'Nobody's Fool' that's very Rainbow meets Deep Purple in style. You even get a special collectors card as well.

Overall, it's an exceptional album- the musician and vocal performances are simply incredible with Yngwie's guitar playing being fast, technically innovative, extremely melodic with notes a plenty in a short space of time. This album will take some beating but no doubt Yngwie will manage it. Looking forward to witnessing it all live.

10/10

From Vince Palamara, Pittsburgh, PA USA: After reading all the glowing reviews of The Maestro's latest offering "Attack!!", I KNEW it had to be good. Well, it's not just "good"..it's FANTASTIC---THE best Yngwie cd since "Alchemy" and maybe his best EVER (certainly the longest at 15 cuts). Dougie White (ex-Rainbow) is fantastic on vocals; alot of soul and style (and a nice range, too). It's nice to have ex-Dream Theater keysman Derek Sherinian on this stellar release, as well. In addition, nice drums from ex-Stormwind drummer Patrick Johansson (also appears on the 2001 Yngwie tribute cd "A Guitar Odyssey"!). The songs on "Attack!" are first rate; only a couple are just in the good-to-very-good range (!). The sound quality/ production is amazing and, of course, Yngwie is awesome (as usual)!!!!!!!!! BUY IT---if anyone says this is Yngwie's finest hour (next to his Concerto cd/ dvd), I won't argue the point.

From Christian, Poing, Germany: Hello everybody, I'm just listening to Yngwie's new album "Attack!". I would say, this is the best recording he has done since the "concerto". Congratulations. It's a new definition of guitar playing. Wow. Paganini would have been very impressed. Perfect combination of classical patterns and rock scales. Superb drums, bass, vocals and keyboards. Yngwie and the "new" rising force is fabulous. Well done and keep on rocking! I hope to see him live in munich as soon as possible with "Attack!". An old fan and blond-Malmsteen-Sig-Git-Strat-Player, Christian

From Brian Ewert, Placerville, California: It grows on you! Contrary to some, there are many new licks on this project. As a long time fan and after TWTEAW I was skeptical of this new release, but let me tell you - It rocks! It is still the "Yngwie Show" but all the tracks are solid with many having great hooks. Unlike many CD's that have 1 or 2 good songs on them this one is dominated by awesome and memorable hooks and melodies that just don't leave your head. Previously I thought that the MV, BS, MA, MT (Seventh Sign, Magnum Opus) grouping was the best... maybe I'm changing my mind. I miss the range of MB and MV, but maybe young DW is saving his throat! Are there keyboards on this album? Oh ya... at the beginning of one song and at the end of another. Maybe there will more next time... this seems to be a timid entry of new talent (except for Y himself... my word!!) Can't wait for the next project. My favorites are similar to everyone else's. The whole damned thing is good, lots of double bass, but yet, tempo changes are placed appropriately. And Yngwie sounds great on Freedom! Solo album...? Probably not. Thought the insert was disappointing. Oh, and when Yngwie rips himself off? AWESOME... reminds me in an instant of those great songs from the past, and I really liked it!

From Bobfather59: Getting back to Attack! I found the CD to have a very European flavor to it and think that Yngwie has given up on trying to please a heavily RAP influenced American audience and is going to please the tastes of his largest audience. Good for him. America is in a musical funk that purchases RAP, Britney and Christina Aguilara? CD's. Very sad indeed. :(

Personally I love the CD. I think the production is the best yet and the rhythm parts are outstanding. The drums are perfect and rival even who I believed to be the best Yngwie drummer to date . . . What's his name? ? ? Oh yeah, Macaluso. Patrick Johansson is a monster drummer and deserves all the kudos we can give him. Derek Sherinan replaced Mats beautifully and proved his expertise on this CD. Dougie White was a most pleasant surprise. His tone and intonation seemed right for every tune. He really surprised me with his lyrical diversity and power.

I guess I should say something about the master's performance on the CD with his name on it. What can I say? Dare you ask? Yngwie seems to better himself with each undertaking. As I said before, this CD has a very European feel to it, and it sounds phenomenal!! I am not sure how Yngwie does it, but he seems to get better with each release. I don't only mean faster, but more lyrical and masterful with each note, as many as there are. The opening took me for a surprise at first, I even asked Frefire, "Is this the beginning?". He smiled and said, "Yup," simply yet definitively.

Razor Eater, a simple tune lyrically, shows Yngwie's mastery of the instrument of his choosing, and his wonderful talent of how to begin a CD. Rise Up, brings things up to speed and accelerates your heartbeat to Yngwie's standards. He tells you he will carry on forever and that it's time to RISE UP! The lead guitar on this tune is subdued?, yet phenomenonally incredible. Valley of the King's opening is pure Yngwie. Dark, mystical, dangerous, mythical and harmonious. What more can I say. I love the keyboard voices at the beginning which leads into Yngwie's speed strings and transitions nicely into the vocals. Every part blends perfectly including the vocals that blend over one another so smoothly and harmonically that it takes me away from my everyday existence.

Ship of Fools, is probably one of my faorite tunes on the CD. It has a rhythm and flow that grabs me and has me placing it on 'REPEAT' mode on my CD player. It has a smooth sound and the drums really grab me, especially just before the chorus. That crazy synchopation and the classical guitar sound followed by Yngwie's insane lead has me mesmerized. Attack! has that great Yngwie hardcore opening and the drums and everyone else goes into that frantic beat and rhythm. . . 'You Must Die Now', . . . ATTACK!! Man, if this doesn't do it for you, then you are certainly dead. Baroque and Roll is a classically influenced instrumental that doesn't stop giving until it's over. From the beginning classical riffs, through the pounding drums and incredible guitar solos, this tune ranks up there with Yngwie's best. Bravo! Stronghold is a grungy modern tune with that definitely European flavor that will appeal to the Euro market. The lead is incredible, powerful and expands on Yng's previous efforts. You will never take his stronghold.

Mad Dog is a frantic angry song that I absolutely love. The guitar never ends and goes into extreme heights and then transitions into a short bluesy section before going back to its frantic pace with Derrick's keyboards and ends with Doogie's, Ian Gillian, type vocals. In the Name of God starts off oddly, but once you listen to the lyrics to this tune, you understand what is being said. Besides that Yng's guitar is smokin' on this particular tune. How does he do that? Freedom Isn't Free is a blues tune that has Yng doing the vocals. He has a good rough blues voice, though I don't really care for blues. The guitar on Freedom is hot though and definitely worth a listen. Majestic Blue, an instrumental, without a doubt has a beautiful and enrapturing melody that will ensnare you in it's diversity, complexity and awesome beauty.

Valhalla, the ultimate Viking song. A friend from work listened to it and said he was going to tell my VP that I was listening to songs that praised living dangerously and drinking with the God's. I said, "Yeah, and...?" Live by the sword, die by the sword... In other words F*&% Off!, you're damn right, I'm a natural born slayer and will raise my cup in Valhalla! Honestly, I have been waiting for a song from Yng that would rival, "I am a Viking", and now I have it. Touch the Sky, this is probably the most European sounding tune on the CD. I'm sure it will be a hit overseas. This tune is definitely a reflective song about what was and the reality that finally set in. Even Yng's guitar solo reflects this. Short and lyrical. Iron Clad, begins as a classical instrumental piece and then takes off into a frenzied attack on your senses. It has a great rhythm and flow that I hope Yngwie takes into his future writings. Like Ship of Fools, it has a lyrical chorus that has a catchy rhythm that can only be described as Yngwiesque. From there it goes into a monsterous solo that can only be described in words as quick and to the point. This tune has a quirky classical, yet modern feel to it that can only be experienced by listening to it. Air, an instrumental, ends the CD with a take off on an old classical theme and takes it to new heights with only a sound and feel that Yng can give a piece. Why? No one else can manipulate and stroke a guitar as Yngwie can. His music soothes my soul and ignites it at the same time. Not many modern artists can accomplish that feat. Actually they don't even come close.

Man, this has turned into a much lengthier message then intended, but I am sitting here listening to the CD and can't help myself. Forgive my indulgence. But do yourself a favor and get the CD. You can't go wrong.

Melodic Rock has an excellent review of ATTACK!! You can access the review HERE.

From Chris, Coral Springs, FL, USA: I've been an Yngwie fan since his demos made it to America. I just listened to "attack",and I don't believe how fucking good it is. This CD has the insane playing that "Alchemy" had,but with the melodic feel of "Eclipse"or "Odyssey". The production is far beyond "WTEAW"which had it's moments,but was kinda weak. I will say I've dreamed of Yngwie doing a CD with Ronnie James Dio singing, David Coverdale comes in at a close second,but Doogie sounds soooo good I feel I almost got my wish. When I first heard Doogie or Dougie if you will on the Rainbow CD "stranger IN US ALL" I was blown away,excellent job. Derek Sherinian is great as always,though nowhere near the more keyboard intensive Dream Theatre or some of the earlier Yngwie CD's. I'm not going name favorite songs because if you're a true Yngwie fan you'll know that this is a lethal release. I will say I've heard Yngwie play bits of older songs on some albums,but thats cool in my book I do the same thing when I play. I'd rather hear Yngwie borrow from himself then Tony"RIPOFF ARTIST"McAlpine blatently steal. Yngwie can do no wrong in my world. There's a ton of integrity in our kind, we'll never care what the rest of the music world sounds or looks like. This is a classic METAL album and a classic MALMSTEEN album. You wll not regret buying it and it makes you want to PLAY LOUD, my Strat stands ready

From Hector Reyes Attack!! finally reached my eager hands and after one single play to the whole CD I can say something about it. I find this new release by the Maestro to be more relaxed in its composition and wiser in its structure than the frentic effort lack of clear direction shown on half WTEAW album (yet it offers many highlights, despite the production). Nevertheless, I can't avoid feeling like only new titles came out rather than new music. I think that at the end, all Yngwie's old fans still keep on waiting for that album showing him at the very limit of his talent possibilities, REALLY outdoing himself, once and forever...well, dreaming is allowed, isn't it??

Dougie's voice surprised me more than I expected, fittin' perfect in each song and same for Patrick's performance on drums. The bottomline: Derek out on vacation almost all the record. As for the tracklist goes, I must say that, although Baroque & Roll or Attack!! (including a flesh rippin' solo) are excellent cuts, Ship of Fools, Valley of the Kings, Ironclad, Mad Dog, Stronghold, and specially the astonishing Majestic Blue could with no doubt set the new ground for the upcoming Yngwie's statements. Hope to see you on tour soon.

From Allan, London, England: I just wanted yngwie to know that with 'Attack', he is back to his best. To be honest I didn't really like WTEAW and the style of the songs. But with Attack, I think he's produced one of his best albums. Well done, Yngwie!!! Keep up the good work. Also, the only two guitarists who influence my own playing are Yngwie and Steve Vai. I have an Ibanez 'Jem' Steve Vai signature guitar, BUT I am finding it impossible to locate a YJM scalloped neck Fender. How do I go about getting one, or even a replica. Does Yngwie have one he wouldn't mind selling? Thks

From Bianca, Brazil: Hi, Anne. I'm really amazed with this Yngwie's new album, Attack!!. All the songs are sublime, I just didn't like too much "Mad Dog," but Yngwie's solo is great. It was time to record "Air."

From Dado: Just listening to it... Big improvement over WTEAW, much better production and Dougie White is excellent! Standout tracks: Ship Of Fools, Stronghold, In The Name Of God, Valhalla, Touch The Sky (intro sounds just like some well known 80's tune, but I can't remember which one). Even Yngwie is singing on one of the tracks called 'Freedom Isn't Free', which is very cool and hilarious, but he can actually sing very well - 70's soul and disco type of vocal. In overall, very well done job by The Viking Chief himself. Thumbs up!

From Jose Fuentes: After listening to the new release “Attack!!” five times now, I’m glad to say this album kicks a**. Attack is very consistent. Every song has catchy guitar rhythms, vocal melodies/harmonies and guitar solos. The album sounds very fresh production wise. All instruments are well balanced. Kudos to Tom Fletcher. I was trying to come up with some favorite songs but each track is special and a highlight on its’ own.

The instrumentals are very strong. Majestic Blue really stands out. Yngwie seems to step out of the box and take a chance on Majestic Blue during the break down, which I would like to hear more of in the future. Bach would be proud to hear Yngwie’s version of Air on a Theme. This song gave me goose bumps. Very elegant and has lots to say in such a short time. “Baroque and Roll” is classic Malmsteen ripping it up between the themes of the song. When I hear “Razor Eator” I can’t help singing “Razor Eater, He’ll never ever die” with the heavy rhythm guitar blazing in the background. The intros to “Valley of Kings” and “Iron Clad” are a treat. I like how the vocal melodies intertwine and push the song forward in Iron Clad. The guitar solo burns and great ending!

Derek Sherinian, Dougie White and Patrik Johansson are excellent musicians. They do a great job contributing to the album! The organ solo on “Mad Dog” is short but sweet. I hope these guys contribute to future Malmsteen projects. Attack is worth checking out! Thanks.

From Jorg (Russia): Hi! I'm Jorg from Russia state Rostov on Don. Yngwie! Your new album "ATTACK!!"-SUPER!!!!!!

From Joey Tatas: Just got the CD this morning from Japan, so far I have listened to the CD all the way through 5 times non-stop. I like it more and more each time through. Overall I would say it is what I expected from Yngwie. I must say I miss some of the old songs with such powerful rhythm guitar parts as opposed to alot of frantic fretwork (i.e., "Fire", "You Don't Remember", Facing the Animal", etc.) However, I am not at all disappointed with Attack!!. Favorite songs (in order) "Nobody's Fool", "Majestic Blue", "Touch the Sky", "Valhalla", "Freedom Isn't Free" and of course "Air". I'm glad I didn't wait for the U.S. release, because as usual the damn bonus track is the best song on the CD! I don't understand why that is that way, I should think everyone should be entitled to the same tracklist. Some of the greatest Yngwie songs are only available as imports ~ anyway, still worth every penny! Look forward to the U.S. Attack Tour! I would rate this CD overall 4 out 5.

From Mikael Randström. (Finland): I did by your new album Attack!!, it´s great! I love it so much, everything in that album is so great!

From Henk Jan Steenvoort (The Netherlands): I received my copy of Attack!! a couple of days ago, and it's clear, Attack!! is a very fine album. In fact, Alchemy was my favorite album but this new CD tops Alchemy. A great sound, great songs and Yngwie seems to outdo himself on guitar every time he releases a new CD. Beautiful fast and slow guitarwork, with a lot of melody. People who say that Yngwie's playing is only fast and without melody, well I think they need a hearing-aid. What I also like al lot on this CD are the vocals of Dougie. they remind me of that Saxon vocalist (Biff Buford?), Saxon fans correct me if I have the name wrong. I'll listen to Attack!! every day, I hope other fans will do that also so that we can sing the lyrics at the upcoming concerts, please Yngwie visit The Netherlands? :) Can't wait to see you live and perform the whole Attack!! CD, also looking forward to The Genesis CD. When will it be released? My favorite Attack!! tracks (hard to choose, all songs are great): I tried to name them , but I ended up typing all 16 songs (including Nobody's Fool, the bonus track).

From Pat (Chicago, USA): All I can say is wow, the CD - it's like listening to the song "Crucify" off WTEAW, but with much better sound quality. The album brings me back to the old Yngwie, the more agressive Yngwie. Wow, what a disc. I've jammed to it about 4 times and I find myself liking it more and more. Thanks for listening, Pat, chicago il

From Micael Andersson: Yngwie has (almost) never dissapointed me when he has released a new album. WTEAW has (as known) a bad production, but the songs are great!! But, "Attack" has everything, namely; a great production (the best since Facing the animal), Fantastic songs (especially "Razor eater", "Valley of kings", "Ship of fools", "Stronghold", "In the name of God", "Freedom isn´t free (the best track I´ve ever heard with Yngwies vocals on by the way)", "Valhalla", "Majestic blue", & the japanese bonus track "Nobody´s fool"), Great musicians and...well, I could go on with this list ´til hell freezes over!! There is one thing that makes me upset, which is some critics. Unfortunable there is some critics that say that Yngwie´s always sounding the same no matter which album he releases!! I mean, they should really listen to his music. I say what Yngwie says himself; "He got a style, why are some people complaining to that when ZZ Top, Aerosmith, AC/DC, etc. always sounds the same"!! Attack IS a great album! Definitely one of the best albums he´s ever made!! See ya in Sweden!!

From Alex: Well, I finally got my hands on Attack. Normally when I first hear an Yngwie album, I do so with a very biased ear, simply because I love Yngwie's music and think he's the cat's ass when it comes to the guitar. Then come the inevitable comparisons to the prior album, although at this point, the benchmark for an awesome Yngwie album to me, is Facing the Animal.

The first, and probably most obvious difference between Attack and WTEAW is the production. It is light years better on the new album. Sub-par production has soured a couple Yngwie albums that otherwise kicked major ass. Good to see that's not an issue here.

Next, the solos. This is the reason I buy Yngwie records, period. I always look forward to hearing whether Yngwie will "out-Yngwie" himself on a new record, and does he ever on this one! Previously, I simply believed Yngwie to be one hell of a talented player, but now I'm convinced he is, in fact, possessed by the devil. If you get a chance, e-mail me the name and location of the crossroads at which he sold his soul...I'm going there!

Yngwie's lead sound continues to be the best around. There is no one, ever, who has been able to reproduce that incredible sound, a big part of which is of course due to his command of the instrument and that infamous Yngwie-vibrato. I'm very happy to hear it wasn't destroyed by shabby production (see WTEAW).

Now for the not-so-great part. Rumor has it, Yngwie has a new singer...Doogie White, or somesuch. Did he actually sing on Attack or did Mark Boals just undergo a legal name change? Though that heavy midrange operatic style voice does suit Yngwie's often very Dungeons & Dragons type lyrics, it completely lacks balls. I guess having heard Yngwie with Mats Leven (MAJOR BALLS!!!) has pretty much jaded me. Once you've heard Mats Leven, how can you even stand to listen to any of Yngwie's other singers-for-hire, especially the highly annoying Mark Boals? FOR GOD'S SAKE, BRING BACK MATS!!!!!! Please? I'll even take Mike Vescera (on 7th Sign...forget Magnum Opus).

Honestly, if Yngwie's going to keep using these operatic singers, how about just releasing instrumental albums from now on? Yngwie's guitar playing is so ridiculously in-your-face ballsy, that it DEMANDS the same from a singer. That, sadly, did not happen on Attack.

Finally, the songwriting. It's a return to the Dungeons & Dragons fare of the last album that I dislike very much. Somewhere between the nonsense that was Teaser, and the dragonslayer lyrics of WTEAW and Attack, there has to be a middle ground. Oh yeah, there was, and it was called "Facing the Animal" (and "The Seventh Sign"). This does not bother me all that much because, as stated previously, I buy Yngwie records for the guitar, and in that sense, Attack is a complete success. You'd think after all this time, Yngwie would run out of ways to keep his playing interesting, but thankfully he hasn't. He continues to blow my mind, album after album.

From Mike Cantone: After listening to the new CD two times, back to back, I feel that I can review it accurately. To start, I do not often listen to a CD back to back unless it hits me hard and I like what I am hearing. Attack!! does just that and it kicks major metal ass. After twenty something releases, Malmsteen still manages to put out new material that is not dull and does not include filler tracks. The sound is much improved since the last CD and is as clear as the superb production on Alchemy. Just like Alchemy, Attack!! delivers guitar, vocals, bass, keys, and drums with a production that puts each of these elements up front and distinguishable from each other. I am truly happy with this release and hope to be able to see this band live in the Boston, MA (USA) area. The songs on the CD are fantastic and I also find it hard to choose my favorites. They might all be faves to me. After I hear a track I want to hit repeat to hear it again. I think it will be tough to choose which songs to play live and I am glad that I do not have to make that decision. The selection of tracks is what we expect and want to hear from Yngwie; fast, melodic, and powerful. Dougie White did a remarkable job with the vocals. Mark Boals is a tough act to follow and Dougie did it well with his own style and identity. I saw previous reviews which indicates Dougie sounds like a cross between Mark Boals, Graham Bonnet, and Michael Vescera. I have to disagree in that I think Dougie sounds unique and like himself and is a fabulous addition to the great list of vocalist that Malmsteen has brought to us. Awesome job to Yngwie and the rest of the band!!! Fellow fans, you will not be disappointed!!!

From Kimmo.O Savilampi 15 yrs (Haparanda): Hi, I´m one of Yngwies biggest fans!!! I got my Attack!! album 2 days ago and its one of the best that he has done!!! I really love the songs Ship of fools, Mad dog, In the name of god, Iron clad, Baroque & Roll, Valley of kings, Majestic blue, Touch the sky and Air. I dont know what makes the album so great but I just can say BRA JOBBAT YNGWIE FORTSÄTT SÅ!!!!! I play along with the Baroque & roll some times....not very easy!! haha.......the album War to end all wars was very good. I didnt like it very much at the beginning but it's great too but very hard to play along. This album Attack!! has so much from the earlier albums like Rising Force, Fire&Ice, Marching Out, Eclipse - that is one of the causes that makes it so damn good... me and my friend have a band. And we play pretty much Yngwie style.....OFCOURSE!! Yngwie is the god, that's why!! I hope to see you in Sweden when you have a concert!! God bless Yngwie!!

From Toni C. H.: I'm one of Yngwie's biggest fans and I waited for the album "Attack" for a long time and it was worth it. Yngwie you've done it again...but better! I think this is one of your best albums...maybe the best. The thing that does "attack" one of the best albums is that there is so much classical and neoclassical music. "Ship of Fools" is one of my favourites because it's something new. Well, here are all my favourites: "ship of fools, in the name of god, mad dog, vallalla, majestic blues, iron clad and air". When I heard these I felt something. I know that you've got a lot of criticism on the albums "war to end all wars" and "alchemy" but why? I think that they are good albums. I know that you wanted something new in to them. I think they are good. Everybody who likes Yngwie's music...you just got to buy "Attack!!". Yngwie, I'm really looking foeward to seeing you in Sweden. Great album, Yngwie.

From Oliver: Hi!! Oh My God!!!! Yngwie Is Back!!!!!!! Yngwie´s new Album is a really great Monster Album!!!!!!! Great Riffs, Best Vocal-Attacks, and A Monster Bassline with Hammer Drums! No This is not an Inferno! This is the great New Ear-Attack!! Yngwie is Back with A New Milestone. I Love and enjoy it everyday! Best wishes, Oliver

From Andreas Helmus (The Netherlands): When I put Attack!! in my cd-player for the first time, I was a little afraid that the sound would be as bad as it was on WTEAW. But immediately after the intro to "Razor Eater", the fright turned into excitement. This was what I expect from an Yngwie album. The beautiful guitar sound that I love so much, great compositions and tremendous solos. And what to say for the voice of Dougie. It really fits to Yngwie's music. It reminded me of Graham Bonnet meets Mark Boals meets Mike Vescera. The standard of this album is very high. Believe me, this is by far the best Yngwie album since "Facing the Animal". It's difficult to say which song I like the most, because they all are really great. I am looking forward to see Yngwie on the forthcoming tour, to perform, the songs of this great album, live. p.s. WTEAW was NOT a bad album. Only the sound wasn't good. The songs on that album are great, especially "Crucify".

From Joakim Hall, translation of review from swedish newspaper "Dalademokraten": ”The world's hardest employer, Yngwie Malmsteen, has kicked out Mark Boals and called in Dougie White to do the singing between the guitarr solos on this CD. When you have listened through half you think “why”? Why release a record with such weak songs, is it because he’s scared to be forgotten between the records, or have I grown too old - 32)? Yngwie, you don’t have to be forgotten, you made yourself immortal with the records “Odyssey” and “Eclipse” during the 80’s and 90’s. Back to this new release; the other part of the record hits me in the jaw with my claims. “Valhalla” and “Iron Clad” sounds damn good, plus some other tracks that are of high standard. Patrik Johansson from Falun (in north of Sweden, that is) has gotten the honour to do the drumming on “Attack”. Well done, kid, you can be proud. This record grows with every listening.”

From Eddie McKee (USA): I received my copy of Attack!! today from Japan...I am really enjoying it. The more I listen to it the more I like it. Favorite track so far is Touch the Sky. Yngwie's playing is great, my only complaint no ballad, oh well if that's the only gripe then I'd say Yngwie is doing great. Doogie does a splendid job on the vocals...clean when he needs to be and raw when called for. I think he will stand out as one of the best vocalists in the long line-up of Yngwie singers...Hope we get to see a full scale US tour I don't want to miss this album LIVE!!!! Thanks Yngwie for keeping metal alive!!! Cheers, Eddie

From Tawfeeq Alqattan: I have to say, THIS IS WHAT YNGWIE IS ALL ABOUT!!!! I love it!! I have been a fan of Yngwie since Alcatrazz. I have all of his albums and this one is ranked in the top of the list. I give it 9/10. I immediately loved these songs “Ship of Fools", "Baroque & Roll", "In the Name of God", "Majestic Blue", "Valhalla", and "Iron Clad.” They are catchy and have lots of good melodies. Yngwie is the true neoclassic master!! Nice job and well done!! Tawfeeq

From Annikki Savilampi: I think it's the best album..that I've heard...but the first album Rising Force is one of the best too. =)

From Mattias Kling, Aftonbladet (Swedish newspaper): {Thanks to Tomas Ohlin for the translation.] The largest daily Swedish newspaper "Aftonbladet" has posted a review of Attack!! It is written by Mattias Kling who gives Attack!! 2 out of 5. The review translates something like: "Yngwie Malmsteen is as close to an international rockstar that Sweden have. While his colleagues at most are satisfied with a condominium flat in central Stockholm the 39 year old guitar hero has a large mansion in Florida where he enjoys collecting exclusive Rolex watches and extremely expensive italian sports cars. But in spite of his luxurious lifestyle he finds time to record with his band Rising Force. The newly released "Attack!!" (the fourteenth album since his solo debut not counting Collections and Live records) shows a substantial improvement sine his latest deal, the unexpectedly boring "War to end all wars". Apart from this, this album shows Yngwie as we know him, the classically influenced guitar scales are performed faster than Jason Priestly can drive on a race track and the guitar playing is as always the main outcome. On the composition side there is nothing to increase the pulse. The compositions mainly feels like they are intended as a basis for Mr Malmsteen to provide as many notes as possibly and it is rather compelling that the best piece of the album, a variation on "Air on a g-string" by Johann Sebastian Bach" was written already in the 18th century." Best regards

From Martin carlsson, Expressen (Swedish newspaper): {Thanks to Tomas Ohlin for the translation.] The second largest Swedish newspaper "Expressen" has a review of Attack!! It is written by Martin Carlsson who (to say the very least) is not a fan of Yngwie... He gives it 2 out of 5, the review would translate something like: "On "Facing the animal" Yngwie tuned up his Ferrari, last year (Mr Carlsson obviously either has a bad memory as well....) he switched it to a badsounding wreck "Alchemy" and even had the bad taste to renew the name "Rising Force". Now he rides a Volvo just like an everyday Swede. The band member have been changed, as always after fights and public slaundering, and the new singer Dougie White is, if not a large discovery, at least in possession of a more heavy voice than several of his predecessors. "Razor eater" is a strong beginning with dramatical keyborads and in general the record is a well balanced effort from an artist who has clearly passed his creative climax." Personally I am not surprised by the bad review, as Mr Carlsson prefers groups like Pantera and Pearl Jam and never gives Yngwie more than 2... Personally I think it is the Maestro's best effort for a long time (since Seventh Sign) with "Valhalla" and "Majestic Blue" as truly great songs (among his best ever). Best regards and thanks for a great effort with the fan club, Tomas

From Kim Gannis: Well what can i say.. you definatley hit the heart of a loyal fan again!! Favorite songs are definitely Razor Eater, Rise Up, Valhalla, Stronghold! very strong, melodic and heavy! Doogie's voice is very powerful and at times reminding me of Dio in some parts! Yngwie you are the MAN! hope to see you downunder again - the land of OZ!! PLAY LOUD "Razor Eater, he will never ever die" Kimon.

From Jarno Tuomainen: After the somewhat disappointing "War to End All Wars" (I can't believe Yngwie released an album sounding that bad) I hoped it was not a sign of an upcoming trend, but unfortunately it wasn't to be. Certainly "Attack!!" is better soundwise, but the songs are not on the level of his earlier works. There are some great moments, but in the end I can't help feeling that songs were too hastily put together. Maybe Yngwie should spend more time on the compositions without trying to force anything out, so that the albums would reflect only the very best he can produce. For example, Baroque'n'Roll, which obviously was intended as a depiction of Yngwie's music, didn't catch the freshness and originality of "Far Beyond the Sun" (and other songs) and thus doesn't do enough honor to them. Also I'd like to hear the presence of the guest musicians, Derek Sherinian is enough to get anyone's attention, but (as usual) is pretty much left to play only the backgounds. On a positive side, lead guitar is at times very good and also refreshing, Yngwie jumping all over the fretboard instead of the more traditional linear lines (although there is plenty of that too, along with another "signature" licks like pedal tones). All in all, the record is obviously a must for any Yngwie fan, but I'm afraid it doesn't offer anything revolutionary. Rating: 7/10 overall (or 5/10 compared to other Yngwie records)

From Peter Voss: Peter here, up in Minnesota, just got the new album, and it F&*king rules!!!!!!!

From www.aordreamzones.com, reviewer Nicky Baldrian: YNGWIE J. MALMSTEEN'S RISING FORCE, Attack!! label: SPV. When the Force really attacks, it's time to ROCK. Heavy melodic metal with burning hot guitar licks powerd by glorious vocals from Doogie White, make this the best Yngwie Malmsteen album since "Odyssey" and "Fire And Ice". Forget the feeble last album "War To End All Wars", Yngwie has learnt his mistakes from the weak production sound of that album, and he has done an admirable job producing this new record which equals the aformentioned "Odyssey" and "Fire And Ice". Listen to rip roaring metal gems like 'Rise Up' and 'In The Name Of God' and you'll be hooked. Other gems include the subtle melodies of the wonderful instrumental 'Majestic Blue', this is classy and immensely pleasurable and could easily have fitted on Yngwie's "Concerto Suite For Electric Guitar". I am very pleased with "Attack" and with this current band lineup. Yngwie once again has a chance to stun audiences as the chemistry between all runs riot throughout the whole record and there's not even a dull moment here at all. One of the tastiest Malmsteen albums yet, essential!! Rating : - 9/10

From Dan Palmer: My copies of Attack!! arrived a couple of days ago from CD JAPAN. I thought I'd write a short note to let you know that I think it's a great album. My favorite tracks are: Razor Eater, Ship of Fools, Attack!! The sound is a great improvement over WTEAW, and it's nice to see some more reflective instrumentals. Yngwie's playing seems to have reached new heights of speed, accuracy, and most importantly, feeling. Just as well that I ordered 2 copies! (one for home and one for in the car). Also, on this particular day, I'd like to send all my deepest sympathies to everyone over there who has been affected by the events a year ago. We will be remembering them today with a minute's silence at 13.46 BST. Best Regards, Dan Palmer

From Micael Andersson in Sweden: I am stunned!! Attack is one of the greatest album I´ve heard for years. Almost all songs went straight to my heart. "razor eater" is a real killer, "Majestic blue" is definitly one of the best instrumental songs Yngwie´s ever written, it´s so beautiful!! "Freedom isn´t free" is (by no doupt) the coolest song on the album with Yngwie´s cool bluesy voice. "Nobody´s fool & Valley of kings", well, fantastic!! With this album Yngwie definitly shows who is boss in the neo-classical era!! Great work Yngwie!! Can´t wait to see you live in Sweden!!

From Mark Mandarano: Same music. Different package. I got Yngwie's new album and he keeps hitting the same riffs, notes and melodies than on his previous 5 albums. At this pace Yngwie is going to bore all of his fans. You know what they say: "A money wearing a beautiful dress is still a monkey."

From The Good Doctor: I'd like to thank Anne (Fan Club Director), all of Yngwie's true fans (especially the Japanese), Pony Canyon, CD Japan, and of course Yngwie himself for perpetuating the musical genius that we know as Yngwie J. Malmsteen. Attack!! is the neoclassical analogue of the symphonic masterpiece, Concerto Suite Live, in that it has no flaws and contains the most extreme playing we've ever heard. In concert, the track "Valhalla" will replace "I am a Viking" as Yngwie's ultimate hard rock anthem. Valhalla kicks ass on many fronts- the intro riff, the lyrics(yes that's right THE LYRICS), the vocal quality, and the arpeggio which leads into the solo(Joe Stump- eat your heart out!). Doogie White's vocals would steal the show on this track but for the guitar excellence of the Maestro. In fact every solo on the album Attack!! is worked out so that it comes off as more structured and less improvised- bravo!. This album reminds me of the best of Alcatrazz and Rising Force put together. The only difference is that Yngwie is now a much more versatile player. The instrumental "Baroque & Roll" makes "Far Beyond the Sun" look like child's play. It's clear that Yngwie's stint with the symphony orchestra has not only sharpened his talents but also his compositions. There's no limit to Yngwie's genius. Where the token neoclassicalist would play Bach's "Air for the G string" straight up, Yngwie interprets and plays this beautiful piece of music with his unique tone and intonation which my friend Fretfire refers to as the "Sting of Yng". Please Yngwie hurry up and go on tour so we can see you play the whole album from start to finish! Your faithful worshipper, The Good Doctor

From Daniel Gross: ATTACK is out - it is everything that Yngwie has promised it to be and it will not disappoint anybody who likes his music. The album is packed with 16 songs and throughout its 72:59 minutes, there is never a dull moment. Yngwie manages well to maintain a very high musical standard throughout the album, from the first notes of "Razor Eater" till "Nobody's Fool", the last track on this very fine album.

Doogie White also did an excellent job, his voice fits very well to Yngwie's music. To my opinion he is Yngwie's best choice as a singer to record an album with, since Jeff Scott Soto (who will always be my favourite) has left the band.

Listening to the album one can understand how Yngwie has continued to develop further and further as a composer/songwriter as the arrangements of his songs and instrumental pieces never have stagnated but, on the contrary, have become more diverse and perfect in a sense. Even though Yngwie has always stayed in his realm of neo-classical baroque & roll, all of his albums are different and they all have their own feel to them. Also by regularly changing singers and band members, Yngwie has always managed to keep his music fresh and exciting.

I have got the feeling that with "Alchemy" some kind of new era has dawned, since "Alchemy", "War To End All Wars" and also "Attack!!" are heavier and more up-tempo than their predecessors and there are no more commercial attempts on these recent albums and his lead playing is more over the top and wilder and crazier than ever before while still being as melodic as ever. It seems that Yngwie has has set a new standard to his playing and that he has comletely overcome the so called traditional framework and conventions of heavy rock. This is complete freedom of composing and playing and Yngwie keeps soaring high above anybody else who has attempted to follow his path as a neo-classical composer. Yngwie once more has proven that he is an innovator, always setting his own standards.

"Razor Eater" is a great opener with a very nice melody line and very strong chorus.It sets the mood for the album. "Rise Up" kicks in with uptempo drumming followed by a cool chord progression. Excellent vocals and over the top lead break. "Valley Of Kings" starts with synths to be followed by a Yngwie typical riff. Slow and heavy song. "Ship Of Fools" opens with a pedal tone lick and evolves into a very melodic song with a very strong chorus. "Attack!!", the title track of Yngwie's new CD maybe also is the heaviest on this album. Very uptempo and straight forward. Pesonally I find the lyrics to this song a little difficult, but so what? It remains a great song. "Baroque & Roll" is everything we would expect from a typical Yngwie instrumental track. Very over the top guitar playing and very baroque. "Stronghold" opens with a heavy riff and maintains that heavy groove thoughout the song. "! Mad Dog" is indeed a mad song with crazy instumentation and vocals and of course a crazy solo. "In The Name Of God" opens with an acapella and turns into a very cool song with super melodic vocals and chorus. On "Freedom Isn't Free" Yngwie is singing himself. This song shows Yngwie's admiration for Hendrix. I wonder if he needed a new wah wah pedal after he had finished recording this one."Majestic Blue" is just beautiful. A wonderful instrumental. "Valhalla" to my mind is the secret title track of this album. This is pure Yngwie and believe it or not...he even plays the cello on this one. "Touch The Sky" displays some keyboards that remind of older Yngwie days. Very nice vocal lines."Iron Clad" opens in a very baroque fashion to be turned into a heavy uptempo Yngwie rocker. This is pure Malmsteen. "Air" pays hommage to one of the greatest composers of all time, J.S. Bach. Beautiful! "Nobody's Fool" is the Japanese! bonus track, a midtempo rocker which is based around a cool rock riff. Well done, Yngwie!!!

From Max Salada: I've had my copy of ATTACK!! for a few days now and have listened to it several times. I have to say that this is certainly one of Yngwie's finest efforts. The songs are good and the production is top notch (maybe we can dream and Yngwie will have Mr. Fletcher go back and re-engineer WTEAW for a special edition). Doogie's voice reminds me of a mix between Marc Boals and Mike Vescera. The only thing that disappointed me was the lack of a ballad. My favorite tracks are: Baroque & Roll, Valhalla, Touch The Sky, Nobody's Fool. I didn't much care for Freedom Isn't Free. -- DJ Mad Maxx, www.djmadmaxx.com, Max Salada

From John Hogenberg: F****g great man!!! I really love this album! This is again a great contribution to music as it should be! Many thanx to Yngwie for giving us another masterpiece to listen to!....Keep up the good work!! greetings from Holland!

From Lucas Santana: hehe what can I say? There's no keyboard solo on it ... but damn, this is a hell of a good album. This album is good, heavy, full of amazing (and composed) solos, and Doogie, in a world where an Yngwie and a Jorn can't live together, is the best man for the job maybe ... but I can say for sure that this new band is ready to rock 'n roll for a long time!! Rise Up, Valhalla, Freedom Isn't Free, and Valley of The Kings are my fav. songs. Everyone can run and buy 'cause its worth every cent! Later, Lucas

From Anders Johansson: [not Yngwie's drummer] Hehe....agreed Lucas! Attack is a very good album, in fact one of Yngwie's best albums ever! Tom Fletcher did a great job with the production, the sound is awesome! Just listen to Yngwie's bass playing, amazing stuff! Actually there is a keyboard solo on "Mad Dog", it's extremely short though. Doogie White is a good singer, sounds like a mix between Joe Lynn Turner and Mark Boals or something like that. My fav songs on the album are Razor Eater, Valley of the kings, Stronghold, Valhalla, plus all the (three) instrumentals (superb stuff). Every fan of Yngwie Malmsteen should run to the record store and pick up this gem! You won't be disappointed, I promise! /Anders

From Michael Gapys: Cool album!! :) My favs are Razor Eater, Rise Up, and Attack!

From Jim Baker: Okay, I have had my first full listen to the album and I think it is the most refreshing album Yngwie has released for years. There is one hell of alot of variety here (all the songs being very strong, with the only one not really hitting it off with me being Attack) - the one thing that smacks me more than anything though are the drums - WOW. Dougie's vocals are strong and some of Yngwie's playing is the best I have heard from him in a long while. It has everything I love about Yngwie - passion, power, speed, melody and feel.

Faves from my first listen are Ship of Fools (nice baroque opening riff going into all out Yngwie rock), Rise Up (surely you have heard the intro to this from the website), Majestic Blue (beautiful instrumental with some great feel), Baroque and Roll (another instrumental, but this one has a similar feel to Far Beyond the Sun), Mad Dog is just wicked and the solo killer, Freedom isn't Free (Yngwie taking vocals for a very Hendrix inspired number) , Stronghold (straight ahead rock), In the Name of God , Touch the Sky (big keyboards on the intro to this one and a very melodic/commercial sounding song), Air (JS Bach eat your heart out), Ironclad (think Motherless Child for the riff) and Nobodys Fool (thought this was a cover of All Night Long when I first heard the riff - not like it at all though, but another commercial sounding rocker). Oh well, I think I pretty much named all the songs there!!!

Anyway, to sum things up I would say that I really think this album is going to be one of my faves because it is just so diverse.

From Wibowo K. Rusli: Mine also arrived from CD Japan today. I haven't had a full listen to the album yet but I really loved the way Yngwie plays Air on the G String here. Drums are really powerful. And among all tracks I've heard so far, I really loved the song Attack!!. And I think Yngwie's guitar sounds a little bit different in this album than the previous ones... a little bit more... depth??? Don't really like the Razor Eater on the first listen, but maybe I'll have to listen to it a couple of more times. Production-wise Attack!! is very well produced. Can't really comment on the music now since I haven't had a full listen to it.

From Paul E. Morrison: My copy arrived today, and I've had one listen so far. I'm not going to review it or anything based on one listen, but for me the strongest tracks are at the beginning and the end. "Valhalla" is absolutely tremendous!!!!!!! Even after one listen I think it could be in my all-time top 5 Yngwie tracks!! Other faves include "Razor Eater", "Rise Up", "Valley Of Kings", "Ship Of Fools", "Majestic Blue", "Touch The Sky" (excellent!!!), and "Air". Hope everyone that used CD Japan is enjoying it!!!

From Pam Picciotta: Just got mine!!! Listening to it as I type!!! I'm very impressed with the sound so far. Will comment later after I've had a chance to listen to the whole CD. Enjoy!

TOUR PHOTOS:

FLORIDA

JAPAN