CARVED IN STONE

A masterpiece it is not, but a marked improvement over the first one, and the natural step in the evolution up to their definitive statement, Tyranny. Musicianship is much better, as is the composition, but the sound is mediocre. Not all of the songs are worth bothering with, especially not "Deeper Than Life" and "Ghostship", which isn't much more than a patchwork of ideas and instrumental masturbation. Still, Alaska and Warcry are two damn good songs, and Don't Ever Cry, Just Remember manages to put a tear to my eye despite its clichees and excess. I guess that what makes me like SG is their ability to infuse their compositions, no matter how trite and bad they may be (and let's face it, some of them aren't that good), with energy and soul. A recommended listen for anyone and a must-have for fans of Tyranny. 3 out of 5 stars.