Unrelenting, magical, immensely creative...MUST have
Alex Knoll | Tucson, AZ | 01/26/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Am I the first to review this album? Then please let me be the first to say this album is near the greatest thing in the history of heavy metal! I picked up this CD after hearing the third song, "The Sinner's Cross," on a TV music station. I thought the song was excellent...maybe it was a cover of some old Helloween song or something. WRONG! This album is totally original. From start to finish, 40 minutes and 50 seconds of pure, bestial, beautiful power metal. Not one second of this CD is a waste of time or musical space. The title track is fast, thought-provoking, and gorgeous. "The Sinner's Cross" is an unforgettable, undeniable STAPLE of fist-pumping power metal. The album doesn't lose any tenacity as it plows through 7 more riff-laden, lyrically masterful tunes. "Hellenium" is a fantastic finish to the album. Jonny Lindkvist's voice will nail you to your seat. The guitars will make your jaw drop. The drums will pound through your skull. The bassist brings it all together. Just when you think you've heard enough of this album, you'll find another song to be your favorite. Even though you will never EVER get tired of this chunk of gold, you will wistfully say to yourself, "This CD is waaaaaay too short!" But if you are looking for the best all-around power metal album, do yourself a favor, hey, do me a favor, and buy this CD. (Original CD available without 11th song.)"
Track Listings (11) - Disc #1