Sacred Heart have come a long way since I first heard one of their demo EP's nearly ten years ago. In fact you can hear for yourself on this new album as the 2003 version of 'You're The One' is on here to compare with its slicker 2011 update.

It is an album of two halves with the serious songs, 'Propaganda' parts 1 and 2 being based on vocalist/guitarist Paul Stead's visit to Auschwitz. Both are done very well, the first part one of the band's heaviest songs (guitarist Mark Stephenson fair whips up a storm on his guitar) to date, whilst the second part is an emotive vocal tour de force from Paul Stead. Quick mention to Alex Burke as well who adds a few keyboard touches here and there which add to the songs.

'Goodbye' is another very moving song about saying farewell to a loved one. 'We Stand (Hand In Hand)' continues the band's ongoing support for the armed forces and again this is the sort of song only a band as experienced as these guys could carry off.

There are still the good time rockers in the first single, the damn catchy 'Nothing At All' (one for daytime radio airplay that's for sure) and shades of Buckcherry on the ode to a pole dancer, 'Spit'.

Five bonus songs include an edit of 'Propaganda Part 1' plus four demos from 2003. They are not bad, 'Crazy World' and 'You're The One' are the pick of the bunch, but they are not a patch on what the band can do now.

Quite possibly the band's best album to date and one to please their growing fanbase. The band are determined to find success on their own terms by independently releasing all their albums and with nay justice this one will be their biggest seller to date.

****½

Review by Jason Ritchie