Guitarist Mario Mollo (check out the two Voodoo Hill albums he did with Glenn Hughes) and vocalist Tony Martin (Black Sabbath/Empire) return with their third Cage album, the last one was released way back in 2002. Mollo writes the music and Martin provides the lyrics and melodies, a true writing partnership.

The album is a great mix of melodic metal like the dark brooding riff heavy 'Cirque Du Freak' and 'Can't Stay Here' - a little funky edge and Martin's vocals give this song a distinct Glenn Hughes feel. Then for a total change there is the melodic rock monster 'One Of The Few', a song that many melodic rock bands would gladly sell their souls for! Love the OTT guitar solos on the chorus. 'Violet Moon' is well constructed ballad, neatly mixing the vocals and haunting guitar parts. They don't really put a foot wrong on this album and for me it is the best one yet from this talented combo.

A fine album to kick start 2012 with and so good to hear Tony Martin again. Now how about the Cage for Firefest?

Jason Ritchie