The first studio album to feature new guitarist Marco Wriedt and again Axxis have produced an album that will please their fans and those who like Euro power metal in general. There are some very heavy yet melodic tunes on here such as the title track (which features co-female vocals unless my ears deceive me but I can't find any mention of who this is on their website), with a great guitar and keyboards interplay.

'I Hear You Cry' is lighters in the air, whilst 'Father Father' starts slowly and then wham, the guitars and drums hit you and its off on an enjoyable metal romp. The band do lapse occasionally into typical power metal fare but the final two songs 'Devilish Belle' and 'Astoria' ensure the album finishes on a high.

Bands like Axxis are never going to push musical boundaries but that said they are very good at what they do and with Dennis Ward's name in the production credits you know it will be a top notch sound and mix.

Worthy of a listen and they should go down a treat live on the upcoming tour with Helloween and Gamma Ray.

***½

Review by Jason Ritchie