Guitarist Lras Eric Mattsson was first discovered Mike Varney (founder of Shrapnel Records) and has been releasing albums since 1985, as well as being a member of the band Vision. On this latest album as well as guitar shredding he handles bass and keys, with ex-Balance of Power vocalist Lance King and Eddie Sledgehammer (from the Manowar school of band member names!) on drums. Opener ‘Open the Gate’ starts with a synth sounding guitar (shades of Maiden circa ‘Seventh Son’) before heading off into a melodic metal direction.

Lance King’s vocals on this sound similar to Queensryche’s Geoff Tate’s, whereas on other tracks they have a more power/speed metal tone similar to Gamma Ray. ‘Blind Faith’ has some tasty keyboard touches and a catchy hook-filled chorus. ‘Chained to My Pain’ is a slower number with subtle guitars (possibly mandolin?) overlaid with jazz-like percussion - not what you’d expect! The epic instrumental ‘Beyond the Horizon - Guitar Concerto No. 1’ takes centre stage with Mattsson really letting fly on his guitar!

There are keyboards interwoven into the mix as well, although this sort of epic track won’t be to everyone’s liking. For those who a bit of 70’s freeform form the closing track ‘Lead Me On My Way’ should do the trick. Heavy riffing guitar, bits of free form guitar and a little bit of Hammond organ all add to make this track another curve ball on this album. Lance King’s harmonised vocals nicely round off the track.

A varied and enjoyable power metal release, guitar fans and fans of Gamma Ray/Balance of Power/Queensryche will like this album big time.

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Review by Jason Ritchie