Metal Church when they first arrived on the scene were always lumped in with the thrash metal bands by the likes of Kerrang! but to these ears they are much more your classic metal act like say Judas Priest or Iron Maiden (helped by the fact vocalist Ronny Munroe sounds like Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford at times).

For me they have yet to better their 1986 album 'The Dark' but this new album comes pretty damn close! This album also sees a new guitarist joining founding member Kurt Vanderhoof, namely Rick Van Zandt who replaces Jay Reynolds.

Opener 'The Company Of Sorrow' is classic Metal Church, the heavy duelling guitars, a rock solid rhythm section (ex-TSO/Savatage drummer Jeff Plate really adds to the band's heavy sound) and of course the vocals of Ronny Munroe, who can wail with the best of them and just as easily bring it down to a lower, menacing tone.

The catchy riff-fuelled 'Breathe Again' gets the old adrenalin pumping whilst 'Monster' sounds like a classic Maiden song. The good thing about the songs on here is that although each one is nice and heavy, there are enough changes in tempo coupled with some quieter moments to make each song stand out on its own.

'Congregation' with its slightly progressive metal leanings tips a hat to Vanderhoof's other band, the 70's prog influenced Presto Ballet. A fitting way to finish a rather good album.

If you wrote Metal Church off after their late 80's turn in the limelight shame on you as this band deserve your attention. Classic metal bands don't come much finer than Metal Church and this album is one of their best to date - long may they continue!

****

Review by Jason Ritchie