It's rare to anticipate a new album so much, but I've known these guys since their late 80s debut, seeing them 10 times live.

Power, classic and trad metal all mix well with aplomb on this new outing, and the Judas Priest influence is still strong. But when the music is this good, such an influence is not to be baulked at. With original vocalist Andy Pyke and guitarist Dave Martin still at the helm, the solos are fantastic and superbly woven into the riffs and guitar harmonies,

The title track really grabs you by the balls (or you'll soon spout a pair listening to this), and 'Premonition' is reminiscent of the band's first album, but a lot heavier. The vocals range from perfect screams to growls, and some melody in between.

'Premonition' verges on extreme metal, while 'Night Terror' kicks off more atmospherically, before some mean and demon like crunchy guitars come in.

Mood, power, energy, with guitar and production all turned up to 11.

15 tracks, and the 6/7 minute numbers never at any point sound too long.

Almost extreme Priest, but definitely worth checking out.

****½

Review by Joe Geesin

www.joegeesin.com

Interview