DARKTOWN

Reviewing this in 2011 for me the most important thing about this album is that it marks the turning of the tide in the quality of Hackett's electric output, which fell spectacularly overboard after 'Defector' ,then splashed around for the next 18 years -or-so, mostly drowning and only occasionally waving. This is not a case of 'mission accomplished', but represents the first positive steps toward a return-to- form. Of the tracks 'Omega Metallicus' is a crazy choice for album opener as it is unlike anything else in the album , but I do think it's good. 'Golden Age of Steam' is a good example of the new ambition not quite delivering. 'Twice Around the Sun' gets even closer. 'Darktown Riots' is good , while 'In Memoriam' probably the best thing on here, even if it almost outstays its dark welcome.

verything else is okay, apart from 'Days of Long Ago' which is so cheesy it would be one of the weaker songs on 'Cured'.

Four stars for ambition, three for delivery.