2003 sees the original 'Victory' line-up, which includes such names as 'Charlie Huhn', 'Herman Frank', 'Fritz Randow' and producer / guitarist 'Tommy Newton' reforming briefly for the release of 'Instinct'. I'm not overly familiar with their back catalogue but from what's exhibited here they execute a Hard Rock / Metal pretty similar in style to Swiss rockers 'Krokus'. I was always impressed with 'Charlie Huhn's' performance on 'Axel Rudi Pell's' 'Wild Obsession' and while he doesn't belt it out with the passion displayed on that album, he still turns in a credible performance, while the fret pairing of 'Herman Frank' and 'Tommy Newton' get in plenty of tasty licks and solos.

'Instinct' opens on a brisk note with the borderline Power Metal of 'Running Scared', which is driven throughout by a strong riff and relentless rhythm, lyrically it's like most of the material, more impressive than you might expect for a German band and all told equates to a splendid opener. The tempo falls for the more grooving 'Plastic Hero' which comes off sounding fairly reminiscent of the 'Pretty Maids', mainly due to its slightly darker, modern approach, not one of the finest cuts present, although the sharp solo is worth hearing. Straight into 'Krokus' territory is the tongue in cheek 'Another Notch In The Bedpost', even the spoken intro screams of 'Marc Storace' and Co. and overlooking the clichéd lyrics, it still comes across as a solid carefree rocker, which ebbs and flows to a fine rhythm. The band mix it up further with the more gritty 'Starman', another track which draws in modern influences, thankfully the album's production suits this type of song and it comes off unexpectedly well, if not really indicative of 'Victory'. Following strongly is the pulsating, hard rocking 'Enemy', which gives way to the oddly titled 'Victoria's Secrets', that whilst being a little generic in places, is very melodic but ultimately the chorus makes for a arduous listen. Improvements are quickly made with rolling riff driven 'Nomads Of The Night' which rides on a sublime rhythm and is further braced by 'Charlie Huhn's' sharp vocals and more fine fret work courtesy of 'Herman Frank' and 'Tommy Newton'. Better still in my opinion is the slashing 'Seen The Light' a brisker affair that highlights a superb instrumental break, 'Charlie Huhn' again impressing on the chorus, while the penmanship and overall execution is fabulous. Next up is the title track and this doesn't disappoint either with it's melodic yet driven approach, while 'Riding Low' is an enjoyable if somewhat predictable mid tempo rocker. The album bows out with the 'Saxon' reminiscent 'Songs Of Victory', an uplifting chorus heavy number, which displays solid work from 'Huhn' who is well supported throughout.

This is a good album from 'Victory', ultimately nothing groundbreaking, but a pretty flawless listen from front to back and definitely worth a listen for Melodic Metal fans.