"Long-time fans might need to warm up to vocalist Jyrki 69's weathered croons, but otherwise won't be disappointed."
Mama always said to never judge an album by its title, but Universal Monsters really does do what it says on the tin: the band's 12th record combines the honky-tonk-ified, goth/glam sound the band are known for with a hint of gypsy-folk and '60s rock.
Long-time fans might need to warm up to vocalist Jyrki 69's (born Jyrki Pekka Emil Linnankivi) weathered croons, but otherwise won't be disappointed. Blackbird Pie is a new high for the band, while Shallow Graves, Blue and Rock 'N' Roll Junkie show the boys haven't forgotten what makes them tick. A flawless effort from Finland's finest horror rockin' rebels.