Although on a run of cracking albums the formula was starting to look a bit repetitive. So to liven things up on this release they step up the distortion levels to modernise the sound and throw in a sprinkling of thrash, to make this their heaviest and most uncompromising release do date. Don't fear though this its still the 'Impellitteri' of old, the usual Neo-classical scorching fret work and power laden melodic vocals are as always present, its just updated a bit. Does it work? Well I'll leave that for you do decide, personally I'd rather stick to 'Screaming Symphony or 'Eye of the Hurricane', nevertheless this is a very good album. Unfortunately they have slipped back into the old habit of only managing around 40 minutes worth of material, and while its a quality album a bit more content wouldn't go a miss. As with a lot of 'Impellitteri' releases the track listing varies depending on where it was released, its highly likely you have a different listing to the one below!

Ripping the album open is the blistering 'Beware of the Devil', a melodic 100mph blaze, full of trademark shredding with the usual clever "Christian" lyrics. Less impressive is the thrash influenced 'Slay the Dragon', while the song writing is solid and guitar solo impressive, it comes unstuck with the crude chorus and the quirky overdubs. Still on the same theme is the disjointed 'Wasted Earth', again strong elements are exhibited, but the aggressive Death Metal style vocal segments and odd arrangements make this an awkward listen. Back on track is the grooving speciality 'Freak Show' a typical 'Impellitteri' blazer, laced with 'Rob Rocks' commanding power vocals and jaw dropping solos. 'Wake me Up' is slightly less punishing than most of the tracks present and feature some brilliantly sung verses and some interesting neo-classical fret work. The best non instrumental track has to go to 'Fear no Evil', one of the nastiest cuts present, a crunching chugger that uses lighter choruses to contrast some slashing guitars and heavy lyrics. My pick of the album goes to the instrumental 'Spanish Fire' as 'Chris Impellitteri' proves he is still at the top of his field, he works the scales like a man possessed, for a mesmerising rollercoaster ride of shred. Following on sweetly is the delightfully written 'Turn of the Century', which nicely balances energetic vocals and superior soloing. Last up is the crunching 'Speed Demon' a frenzied rocket ride that boasts driving rhythm and glorious fret work.

Nine tracks at 38 minutes leave me wanting more and this isn't really unreasonable, a couple of extra tracks wouldn't have gone a miss, but all said it business as usual for 'Impellitteri'. Regrettable 'Rob Rock' left after this release to pursue a solo career and other projects, his replacement was former vocalist 'Graham Bonnet'.