Based on the new novel by author Wolfgang Hohlbein, 'Chronic Immortals' this release is overseen by Dennis Ward. He is joined by fellow Pink Cream 69 member and vocalist David Readman and Lana Lane, two vocalists used to prog metal and hard rock. But the real curveball on the vocal front is Davy Vain, frontman of 80's hair metal band Vain (guitarist Jamie Scott of Vain is also amongst the backing musicians) and not a name you'd expect on an album like this one.

This is an enjoyable album and has a strong storyline running through it - the main character Delany hunting through London for the elusive Phantom. One of the highlights features Davy Vain on vocals, 'Planets Turning' which appeals not only to to the prog fan but those who like a strong chorus and melody. Of course with Dennis Ward at the production helm no need to worry about sound quality and special mention to Erik Norlander who handles the keys throughout.

David Readman gets a chance to belt a few numbers out most notably the title track and 'Web Over London', both mixing hard rock with prog/melodic metal rock to great effect. Strangely the Lana Lane fronted songs are the weaker ones on here, not for her vocals which are divine as ever, but the songs which lack the killer riff or chorus found elsewhere on the album.

Definitely one to seek out and deserving of a wide audience not just lovers of progressive metal but fans of Pink Cream 69 and hard rock. Mind you not sure many diehard glam metal fans will find much on here bar the presence of Davy Vain.

****

Review by Jason Ritchie