FEAR

This has the unenviable task of following fan favourite "Paradox", then add to that the fact that singer DC Cooper has just left the band and you'd figure this would become a whipping boy of sorts. John West takes up the vocals here.

"Fear" opens with spoken words before a good mid paced rhythm takes over. Not a fan of the orchestral keyboards at all. Vocals come in before 5 minutes as it settles. It does kick back in and that rhythm returns too. "Faces Of War" opens with a beat then the tempo picks up as the guitar comes in. Again it's orchestral-like. Reserved vocals before 1 1/2 minutes. It all kicks in fairly hard but there's too much prominance given to the keys. Guitar solo before 4 minutes.

"Cold City Lights" opens with orchestral keyboards and a heavy rhythm section. It settles and the vocals follow. Contrasts continue. "Lies" sounds good for the first time with those PRIEST-like guitars to open. It goes downhill from there. "Follow Me" is ballad-like with keys and syrupy vocals. "Voices" is orchestral to start as the tempo picks up and the vocals join in. Almost a Power-Metal rhythm here. "Sea Of Time" opens with church bells and other sounds before the music comes in and builds. Guitar then comes in leads nicely. Vocals follow.

Just not a fan of this style of music at all. Especially the orchestral sections and they are all over the place.