Well they've finally turned the corner, the previous offering showed signs of a resurgence, but now its here and it rocks pure and simple. Forget those unsuccessful late 80's albums packed full of commercial Pop Metal, this baby is uncompromising quality Metal, darker and more potent than anything they've done since the early 80's, they have also found new Inspiration for the songs which was definitely lacking before. The replacement of original guitarist 'Graham Oliver' for 'Doug Scarrat' is also an inspiration, his more technical style gives the band new life, while still maintaining the trademark 'Saxon' sound. Production wise this is bang-on, 'Kalle Trap' and 'Biff' have maintained a crystal clear sound, with all instruments and vocals just where they should be in the mix.

The album is set by the foreboding 'Gothic Dreams' a brooding intro that suddenly bursts into life as the full offensive of the title track begins. If you ever thought 'Saxon' were past it, thinks again, 'Unleash the Beast' is a blistering borderline Power Metal ripper graced with divine rhythm work, while 'Biff' sounds on the top of his game and immediately the impact of 'Doug Scarrat' is evident as the fret work is more dynamic- great track. The pace is maintained with the hypnotic rocker 'Terminal Velocity' a traditional sounding, riff driven 'Saxon' track but with a modern twist, as before the guitar work is impressive, while 'Biff's' vocals are arguably as good as ever. Heavier still is the nasty churning 'Circle of Light', an interestingly and if I dare say well penned cut, musically it's just a jewel, great intro, ultra heavy rhythm and glorious guitars- another great effort. My pick of the album however has to go to the semi epic 'The Thin Red Line', which tells the story of the British fighting the Zulu's. Lyrically this is just top notch, some of 'Saxon's' best, musically this is them at the pinnacle of their game, while 'Biff's' vocal performance could be his finest. Not quite as impressive but still very enjoyable is the more light-hearted 'Ministry of Fools', a carefree rocker with a good catchy chorus and splendid instrumental break. The second half isn't quite as strong as the first but still isn't short of solid cuts, the first of which is 'The Preacher' a slower more grooving number, overall decent but doesn't standout like many others do. Superior still is the brisk ripper 'Bloodletter' a no nonsense rocker, highlighting commanding rhythm work from 'Nibbs Carter' and 'Nigel Glockler', sharp 'Biff' vocals and some fine fret work along the way. Not quite so cutting is the darker yet more laboured 'Cut Out the Disease', lyrically it's a little light and despite some interesting arrangements and solos, not one of my favourites. The pace softens for the balladsy 'Absent Friends' and although not really appealing to me, it's nicely written and executed, while showing 'Saxon's' talents on the slower material. 'Unleash the Beast' had to close with a rocker and they certainly picked a good one, 'All Hell Breaking Loose' is aggressive, driving and thoroughly enjoyable, the changes of pace from subtle spoken lyrics to all out blazing are effective, while the glorious guitar work of 'Doug Scarrat' and 'Paul Quinn' is the highlight.

A real turn-a-round for 'Saxon', they've rolled back the years and written possibly their finest album to date, and the most wonderful thing of all, this is no one-off there's more great albums to follow- Nice once 'Biff' and the boys!