Following on from their debut album, the somewhat naffly titled New Wave of German Heavy Metal, Viron have made an impressive statement of intent with their follow-up.

The most impressive aspect of the album is the variety between tracks; for example the melodic On the Run gives way to the rapid Stratovarius-style Isle of Man, which is followed by the mournful and mainly acoustic War, which reminds me of Judas Priest's early work.

There are more straightforward rockers such as Metal Ball and Playground for Billions, both of which owe much to fellow countrymen Helloween, and a number of lengthy epics with plenty of light and shade, notably album closer Sniper.

A worthy addition to the ever growing ranks of European power metallers.

****

Review by Andy Nathan