If Blinded Colony's 2005 demo was the indication that they were a name to watch, Bedtime Prayers is here to solidify that claim. After the split with Scarlet Records following their 2003 debut Divine, the independent demo got them signed to up-and-coming label Pivotal Rockordings, bringing us Bedtime Prayers.

Much like my earlier review of the 2005 demo, if you like modern day Soilwork, In Flames, or even Raunchy, Blinded Colony should be straight up your alley. Catchy guitar melodies with plenty of crunch behind them, prominent yet tasteful keyboards, raspy screams and clean vocals choruses are what you'll find in plenty of supply here. Sure, it's nothing you haven't heard before but Blinded Colony are one of the best at what they do. I'm also pleased that the band has kept their abrasive edge intact, as it gives them a nice distinction from the afore-mentioned bands. In fact, one of the main draws of BC to my ears is their ability to mesh the headbang-friendly, breakneck riffs with fantastic chorus melodies and soaring vocal-work.

In addition to the re-recording of 3 of the 2005 demo tracks ("Need", "Aaron's Sons", "In Here"), we are given 6 brand-new ones that are just as addicting. Opening track "My Halo" starts things off with a bang with it's quick pace, and features one of the strongest choruses on the disc. While I'm usually not one for processed vocals, "21st Century Holocaust" utilizes them perfectly in the chorus, making for a nice contrast from the headbanging riffs of the verses. "Once Bitten, Twice Shy" (no, it's not a cover song) and "Heart" have choruses so addicting you'll be hard pressed to get them out of your head in less than a week.

Bedtime Prayers establishes Blinded Colony as one of the premier bands in the melodic death scene today. If you remotely enjoy any of the bands mentioned in this review, Bedtime Prayers should be the first disc you purchase in 2007. Highly recommended!

Standout Tracks: My Halo, 21st Century Holocaust, Aaron's Sons, Revelation, Now!