In the early 90's brothers Andreas and Samuel Andersson joined a rock band in Falköping, Sweden. Amongst that bands ranks they also found drummer Daniel Eskilsson. But after recording 2 demos, the band broke up in 1995. The members lost contact, but accidentally run into each other some years later. They decided to give it a new go, and practiced together as a 3 piece. In 2003 they added singer Peter Sigfridsson to the ranks, and while he was a stranger to metal, he still fir in nicely with the bands melodic metal approach. This first incarnation of the band called themselves Divine Disciples. In 2004 they recorded a demo, and sent it to Rivel Records. They immediately showed interest, and the band singed a contract with them. In light of this deal they decided to include one more member, and guitarist Johan Abelson joined. They also changed their name to Majestic Vanguard. in 2005 they released their debut album, entitled 'Beyond The Moon'.

BEYOND THE MOON (2005) METAL HEAVEN (Promo)

For ages there's been a lack of quality bands in the Christian metal scene that can make an impact in the secular market also. One of the men who's decided to do something about this is Christian Rivel. He's the man behind Rivel Records, besides being the singer for bands like Narnia, Modest Attraction, Flagship, DivineFire and Audiovision. He is also responsible for getting this band signed. Majestic Vanguard is as serious about their message, as they are about their music. Thus we get the cake, and can eat it too, on this debut album, entitled 'Beyond The Moon'. To be honest, it is not the greatest metal album ever recorded, as it has it's flaws. The only "problem" is that I can't really point to specific factors that makes me hesitant to bring out the nicest compliments. It might be that the band will need a few more years to really develop as a group before they really flourish. As it is now they sound as if they want to accomplish more than they are capable off. Still, this is a decent debut from a band to look out for. What they play can best be described as melodic European power metal, but with some neo-classical elements as well. Kudos for the bold lyrics, and powerful music. Minus for the very Scandinavian-sounding accent on the vocals.

Killer tracks: The Great Eternity, Beyond The Moon, Tears In Neverland