From the moment this album starts, you are in no doubt about the nature of this band’s music; from the opening rhythmic burst, this is Rock, pure and simple.

Hard To Smile is an out and out hard rock track with a short, quiet, deathly intro before all hell lets loose. It’s dramatic with thundering bass, flying riffs and a classic rock vocal, shit this is single material and a top start to the album. Stuttered, punk riffs open Mercury Rising while another strong melody drives this tad less rampant track along. The drums and guitars are awesome while the angry vocal nails another great rock tune. Promised Land is dominated by a massive drum rhythm and full-lung vocal. It’s as dark as hell, lumbering in pace and includes more flashing, classic guitar riffs in the second half of the song. Then straight in at breakneck pace with Jewels and guitar riffs that will make the hairs on the back of your neck stand-up to attention. The Dirt (Part 2) slows the pace dramatically in a song about despair that is totally credible. Amazing guitar riffs again feature during the second half of the song as Ash on lead vocal provides a strong and highly emotional performance.

Pure, simple, classic rock doesn’t get much better than this, and if that’s your bag, you will love this record.

4/5