Despite 'Piet Sielck's' commitments with 'Savage Circus', 'Iron Savior' thankfully continue to roll on, with this their sixth outing of exquisite Sci-Fi tinged Power Metal. 'Megatropolis' sees a return to the full concept of earlier glories and is driven by a strong futuristic “Blade Runner” style theme. If you're expecting a 'Battering Ram' part two like I was, this might take a couple of listens, to begin with you will notice the production is grittier and harsher than it's predecessor. This initially took a little getting used to, but that said it nicely matches the urgency of concept, 'Piet Sielck's' vocals are also stronger in the mix and he takes a slightly more abrasive approach- but rest assured it all comes off impressively and is still well and truly in the classic 'Iron Savior' mould.

Opening in uncompromisingly fashion is 'Running Riot', a classic brisk paced gem that's typical of 'Iron Savior', good solid lyrics, thundering drums, 'Piet's' raspy vocals delivering with power and conviction and a glorious guitar fuelled instrumental break- superb opener. Ensuing strongly but not quite so vigorously is the more melodic 'The Omega Man', another nicely penned cut, brimming with tight rhythm work and sharp guitar licks and solos. 'Flesh' sees the band taking a somewhat more modern approach, the aggressive intro is potent and 'Piet's' forceful delivery adds to the effect, overall a little reminiscent of current 'Rage' and while not quite the norm for 'Iron Savior', still pretty effective. Even better is the Speed Metal title track, which ebbs and flows to a refined melody and incorporates plenty of tempo changes to keep the interest, whilst the slightly mystical post chorus instrumental work is just sublime and the chorus certainly hits the right spots. Returning to a more mainstream 80's Metal sound is 'Cybernatic Queen', a real mixed bag, which at times recalls classic 'Queensryche' and at others, highlights some dubious lyrics and a little awkwardness. Not too dissimilar in approach is the riff driven 'Cyber Hero', a brisk melodic affair, sporting driving rhythm work and sharp exacting vocals from 'Piet', the only regret here is the needless and irritating vocal passage closing the song. The mid paced rocker 'A Tale From Down Below' follows with a more plodding approach and emphasises a strong melody, good solid lyrics and the usual sweet interplaying fret work from 'Piesel' and 'Piet'. More quality ensues with the energetic 'Still I Believe', which combines heavy rhythm work with sublime melody, the harmonious chorus and soaring vocals are also a highlights here. The penultimate song on the DigiPac version of 'Megatropolis' is' Hammerdown', a worthy bonus track which ties in with the album theme and is a good stand alone rocker by it's own right, energetic and driven but perhaps the chorus just takes the edge off somewhat. The album concludes with the appropriately titled 'Farewell And Good Bye', a good dose of old school Power Metal, but full of the twists and turns you expect from Iron Savior- strong closing track!

Another very respectable release from 'Iron Savior', but I do feel the concept could have benefited from another couple of tracks and ultimately as good as this is, I still feel that with a bit more work 'Piet' and the boys could have made this a classic!