The second instalment of 'The Neon God', titled 'The Demise' continues the story of "Jesse Slane" and without totally giving away the concept, charts his fall from grace. As I mentioned on the first album 'The Rising', the story is very similar to that of 'The Crimson Idol' and this second release further compounds my initial thoughts. Overlooking the recycled factor, 'Blackie' has penned some wondrous lyrics, (in fact his song writing since 2001's 'Unholy Terror' has been nothing short of astounding) and gets my full respect. Musically it's still very much in the vein of the past three releases with some of the darker elements from 'Still Not Black Enough', in all honesty there's not much present, that they haven't done before, don't get me wrong it's good stuff, but all a little too familiar.

'The Demise' opens with the darker down-tuned 'Never Say Die' a lively track that while a little repetitive, is graced with a splendid guitar solo and 'Blackie Lawless' on stellar vocal form. Next up is 'Resurrector' a mid tempo rocker, driven by a galloping rhythm and overall has a trademark 'W.A.S.P.' sound and although nothing revolutionary, all the better for the energetic instrumental break. Following strongly is the title track 'The Demise', a passionately sung number which begins slow, but picks up into a guitar fuelled number, which highlights splendid work from 'Darrell Roberts' and sharp drumming from 'Stet Howland'. The pace drops for the ballad come rocker 'Clockwork Mary' a passionately penned track which is matched by 'Blackie's' heartfelt vocals, the first half is slow and very melodic while the second is brisker with plenty of decent fret work. The tempo is lifted once again for the energetic run-through known as 'Tear Down the Walls', musically we've heard similar from 'W.A.S.P.' before, but that doesn't take away the fact that this is a solid rocker, with yet more great instrumental breaks and choice 'Roberts' solos. 'Come Back to Black' is a less intense piece, that's pretty catchy despite the more simplistic lyrics, this is all tied in with another strong vocal performance form 'Blackie', sharp guitar licks and impressive instrumental wind down. The pace falls for the short ballad 'All my Life', a well executed piece that's further upheld with complimentary keyboard work. It's back to the rockers with 'Destinies to Come' a galloping 'W.A.S.P.' ripper, with darker menacing undertones, which sets the tone nicely for this concept closer, musically it's cutting and intense and another highlight. Last up is the 14 minutes epic 'The Last Temptation' which recounts the trials and tribulations of "Jesse Slane" and takes you on a rollercoaster ride of music and emotions. Overall a fantastically penned epic which features superb performances by all band members and for me is the highlight of the album.

Musically I prefer 'The Demise' to 'The Rising', and in all honesty could have given this a higher rating, as it displays great consistency and song writing, but ultimately there's too much recycling of both concept and music. Still respect to 'Blackie' and Co. as this is a very enjoyable concept album, with a special nod to 'Darrell Roberts' who over the past three albums has proved himself a very competent guitarist, who fits in superbly with 'W.A.S.P.' .