The first full release for 'Armored Saint' and here they lay down their own special blend of 'Traditional Metal' meets 'Power Metal' that will do them well throughout the rest of the 80's. Featured here is the classic line up of 'John Bush' on lead vocals, the late 'Dave Prichard' and 'Phil E Sandoval' on guitars and 'Joey Vera' and 'Gonzo' supplying bass and drums respectably.

The title track opens the album in the style that will be displayed throughout, gutsy, energetic and overflowing with heavy riffs. 'March of the Saint' features a grand medieval sounding intro then explode into a rolling riff driven thumper with strong harmonised choruses and a solid instrumental break. Even better in my opinion is the chugging gem 'Can U Deliver' another robust rocker, again with a big chorus that 'John Bush' works wonders on with his powerful cutting vocals, the rhythm section also pull out all the stops for a blazing display. More fine work is exhibited on the fast and furious 'NWOBHM' sounding 'Madhouse', here the duel guitaring pair of 'Dave Prichard' and 'Phil E Sandoval' prove their worth with a superb display of dazzling fret work. The pace is dropped for the mysterious sounding 'Take a Turn', a richly sung number, that's well written and cleverly builds throughout, so ending as an emotional rocker. Side two kicks off with the hard hitting 'Mutiny on the World' which is braced by a potent chorus and strafing axe work. Other strong contenders include the solid plodder 'Seducer', the rhythm flowing 'Glory Hunter' and the winding 'Stricken by Fate'. The album concludes with two fine tracks, first up is 'Envy' a drum and bass fuelled rocker that has more than a slight resemblance to 'Mötley Crüe's' 'Piece of your Action'. And lastly one of 'Armored Saint' best numbers 'False Alarm' which emphasises a great slow down for the chorus, which adds to the power and menace and overall makes for great burn out, the sweet instrumental work and sharp vocals should likewise not be overlooked.

A good solid debut and while 'Armored Saint' aren't the most adventurous metal band to lay down a crunching riff, they keep to what they know and they do it consistently and to a high standard. Fans of 'Manowar' 'Maiden' and alike groups should checkout this often neglected outfit.