The Reckoning, from Sweden’s Arise, is somewhat of a departure from the usual Regain Records releases. That’s not a knock on the label—it has released some of the most underground, quality black and extreme metal during its existence. But Arise is more of an Americanized band with Scandinavian influence (Entombed, At the Gates, In Flames, for example) and the “Gothenburg sound.” Sound like metalcore? Well, no, though Shadows Fall is a decent starting point.

Though the band is certainly closer to death metal than rock, there is accessibility in a bulk of its songs. Dare I say that Arise is probably the most polished and musical band currently on Regain’s roster. (OK, so Regain bands can be musical, but set The Reckoning side by side with the new Gorgoroth and you get my point.) Tight production, huge riffs, memorable guitar parts, soloing and solid song structure—verse-chorus-verse—are present. You wouldn’t know this from the album’s crushing opener, “Adrenaline Rush,” or other melodeath jaunts in between, but things take this shape with “No Memory of Light” and “Blindead,” the most memorable, pump-your-fist, driving tune here.

I know it’s a cardinal sin these days to say that bands have actual songs and accessibility, but don’t be fooled into thinking Arise is going to hit rock radio. You get a multifaceted attack of double bass, growled and gargled vocals, and experimentation on the eerie “Pitch Black” and classic Swedish melodeath on songs like “They Are Coming For You,” “The Reckoning” and “The Fury.”

The album gains momentum and crosses over into more extreme territory as it progresses. In fact, the second half of the album would be a revelation if it was the new In Flames. Both bands share the same hometown in Sweden, so I’ll give Arise a pass there.

Originality isn’t Arise’s strong point, as they clearly wear their influences on their sleeves. But writing great metal songs is. The Reckoning is a strong debut album seemingly coming out of nowhere.