'Ok, but what about the songs?' I hear you ask. What? You didn't say anything? Goddamn voices. Ah yes, the songs. I was interested in how they'd turn out, seeing as how Room V didn't make that much of an impact on me. The fact that it was following Legacy didn't help either. Turns out I've got an 'every other album' relationship with the band, seeing as how I dig the songs here. There's not a single below-average song out of the 7 here, and quite a few damn good ones. High points include the power anthem title track, along with the more rocking Strong and Venom. Both those songs have guest singers helping proceedings, and the one on Venom sounds like he's trying to channel Jon Oliva at times. Good fun!

The digipack edition has a total of 4 bonus songs - a demo version of Gold Dust with Carl Cadden James doing the lead vocals, an acapella version of all the harmony vocals on the title track (very useful for those reverse karaoke sessions) and finally two ballads recorded from when Mike Baker was still around. They're a nice touch, and make a fitting closure to that era of the band.

As a wankery-lover, I have to tip my imaginary hat to the virtuosity on the album. Both Brendt Allman and Gary Wehrkamp just outright scorch. Incidentally, it's hard not to gawk at the range of duties that Wehrkamp takes on - guitars, bass, keyboards, vocals and drums?! Are you kidding me?! Truly boss. And I mean endgame boss.  In case you're new to the band, I feel it necessary to point out that almost everyone in there multi-tasks like a mofo. Well, it's progmetal so I guess the only time you're supposed to comment on the instruments is if they aren't kickass.