Totally thematic just like its predecessor (“Devils”), the current album by The 69 Eyes, “Angels”, delivers lyrical stories of angels, wings, stars and magic with a pinch of vanity and the typical for the band melancholy. Nevertheless, the release is not in the lavish, pitch heavy tones and motives we’re used to get from the Finns, but has a rather upbeat sound throughout pretty much the whole time. The opening title song reveals the mystery of the angels who are far from being here to watch over us or save us... Next comes the quite depressed “Never Say Die”, and then another positive one (“Rocker”), where the main character proudly admits that for his second chance he has chosen the wicked way of being a rocker. The culmination, however, comes with the next two pieces, especially “Ghost”, which is full of melody, emotion, a beautiful short solo and great lyrics. “Perfect Skin” is as much a dedication to all devilish beautiful women as it is a tease to all the stars of the fashion stage. The angelic and the diabolical cross paths once again in the person of a woman in “Wings & Hearts”, and even a little voodoo takes place. In the spirit of magic here comes “Star of Fate” with some mystical bells, tender keyboards and even more tender vocals. The faster and more positive “Los Angeles” and the pessimistic “In My Name” succeed each other. Another slow piece - “Shadow of Your Love” - and “Angels” ends with the frankly rude “Frankenhooker”. Diverse and lively yet with a portion of darkness and depression, the album is a balanced piece of work. Exceptionally pleasant and not at all onerous, it won’t blow your head off, but you sure shouldn’t miss it.