Hot on the heels of the commendable 'Accident of Birth', 'Bruce' hits us with another thumping rendition of Metal, 'Dickinson' style. Although not strictly a concept album, many of the themes are based on poetry and the inspirations of 'William Blake', this gives 'The Chemical Wedding' a mature and well penned feel, that is supported by a darker, thicker approach than on previous releases. 'Adrian Smith' and 'Roy Z' are again present and this stunning partnership combines excellently with 'Bruce's' vocals and the material for another impressive album.

Crushing power chords introduce the first track 'King in Crimson', a distortion heavy belter, brimming with attitude and potency, 'Bruce Dickinson' sounds at the top of his form as he delivers the rich lyrics with pure power and menace, he is brilliantly backed up by the fabulous duel guitar partnership and fine rhythm section. The title track follows in a more low key approach, fusing subtle vocal verses with more up tempo sections, I personally find the chorus a bit lacklustre and droning, despite this the fret work by 'Roy Z' is, as we've come to expect from him, nothing short of excellent. Back on track is 'The Tower' a pulsing treat, laden with strong lyrics, hearty basslines and fine soloing courtesy of 'Bruce's' 'Maiden' sparing partner 'Adrian Smith'. Even better though is the punishing gem 'Killing Floor' an aggressive, in your face thrasher, full of sharp fret work and some steadfast screeching vocals. Continuing in excellent form is the uncompromising rocker 'Book of Thel', one of the albums sharpest cuts, the intro to which is a typical 'Maidenesque' mystically affair, which builds into to solid plodder, demonstrating choice penmanship, a thumping chorus and 'Bruce Dickinson' tearing through the lyrics. Less impressive is the downbeat 'Gates of Urizen' a lethargic mid tempo number, with a repetitive feel. The tempo is dropped even further for 'Jerusalem' a gloriously penned track full of rich lyrics that I believe are based on a traditional song of the same name (excuse my ignorance). The song proceeds in a traditional medieval folk manner and builds into a brilliant guitar fuelled rocker, laced with superb solos by both guitarists and 'Bruce Dickinson' ripping through the fabulous verses with spontaneity. The pace is restored with the forceful ripper 'Trumpets of Jerico' a dark grungy number, which is relieved mid track by some fine flowing instrumental work, a tad drawn out for my liking but still a decent darker number. Following is the powerful 'Machine Men', the intro to which sounds like pure 'Maiden', again the lyrics are well penned and the delivery is superb, my only mute point is the strange churning vocals in the background, they add nothing for me. Bringing the album to a close is 'The Alchemist' a richly composed number with a mystical flow which is complemented by fine fret work and a clever reprise to the title track.

A shrewdly written and performed album that is sure to please fans of 'Bruce Dickinson' and 'Iron Maiden'. One of the best releases of the year and another notch for old school Metal.