Easily the best work from Bruce since his days with 'Maiden', the introduction of 'everything I touch turns to gold' 'Roy Z' and maiden guitarist 'Adrian Smith' has helped no end. The writing, performances and production are leaps ahead of his previous albums, and the style of songs are more akin to that of his glory days with 'Iron Maiden' than the unevenness of 'Tattooed Millionaire' and 'Skunkworks'.

'Freak' opens the album with a nasty dark approach, that features a great guitar mid pick-up, haunting lyrics and I especially like the mystical voice in the background towards the end of the song. 'Starchildren' is a riff heavy slammer, with an unusual 'hammer on anvil' drive going on in the background. A slightly rawer demo version was released on the single 'Accident of Birth', I prefer the single version to the one included here. 'Taking the Queen' builds from a subtle opening to slow dark plod that's very well written and performed. Other classic cuts include the semi-epic 'Darkside of Aquarius', and the emotional ballad 'Man of Sorrow'. The title track features a great rhythmic chug and is excellently penned. 'Road to Hell' is a modern classic, with great lyrics, superb guitar work and Bruce's vocals at their very best. My pick of the disc is the rip-roaring 'The Magician' featuring shredding guitars, a head-banging rhythm and strong chorus. 'Welcome to the Pit' is probably the nastiest track on the album with a dark opening plod that develops into a slow groove. The disc closes with two softer numbers 'Omega' and 'Arc of Space', not my favourites but do show the ability of Bruce and the lads on slower numbers.

If you are a fan of 'Maiden' or just appreciate quality metal then do yourself a favour and pick a copy up.