This is the band's fifth studio album, although I've not heard any of their previous albums. After repeated listens this album is one for fans of Michael Kiske era Helloween and Gamma Ray.

Vocalist Chris Bay is at times uncannily like Michael Kiske - just listen to 'Innocent World' or the soaring vocal parts on 'Queen Of My World' for proof. Great tunes though and even 'Mr. Evil' is a cracking metal romp despite the corny lyrics.

'Far Away' is a novel song with bagpipe backing and a drinking song chorus line over the top. Sounds bizarre but it works! The only drawback of this album is that too many songs have a 'whoa whoa' added into them and the intro track is fine for a few plays but has you soon skipping it.

Fans of the band and Helloween, Gamma Ray and Rhapsody Of Fire will love this album but maybe not for the general metal fan as this style of metal is one you either love or loather as being to corny/fantasy based.

***½

Review by Jason Ritchie