Blindside

Blindside is one Swedish rock band whose ship may have just arrived. At least in America, anyway. With two memorable indie releases under their belt, the scorching foursome have signed with Elektra in the U.S., and have been busily putting the finishing touches on their American debut -- Silence--produced by Howard Benson (P.O.D.). Despite the title, Blindside's much-anticipated disk is anything but silent. Marked by brilliant, flaring guitars that complement an almost mystical vocal presence, the group has carved out a rock masterpiece in a series of stunning, but simple strokes. The appeal of such immediacy was not lost on producer Benson. "I met them through P.O.D.," says Howard. "They were blown away by how talented they were." Sonny, of P.O.D., indeed heaps a fair amount of praise on Blindside. "They play with such a high level of emotion. I believe they will be the next big thing in rock. Silence is by far the best album of the year, a refreshing break from all the cookie-cutter acts that are out there today."