POETS & MADMEN

3.5 stars. I'm not sure if "Poets And Madmen" refer to the title of this record or are a description of the band. Good to see Jon Oliva back for this one, but his vocals seem to be rougher than ever unfortunately (not my favourite style).

Some of the highlights for me are "I Seek Power" a heavy duty tune that is dark and haunting.There are some powerful riffs and some screaming guitar lines. "Morphine Child" is the longest and best song for my tastes, I really like Jon's vocals when he holds back, harnesses in his singing. This tune has such a catchy sound and there is a real contrast between the light and heavy.

"The Rumour (Jesus)" has some killer instrumental music in it, I just don't agree with all the words. "Man In The Mirror" is a great, great song, the instrumental passages and especially the guitar playing is wondrous. Finally "Awaken" fearures a splendid riff that works so well in combination with the chorus.

There several SAVATAGE records I like better than this one, but who knows if this will be their last ? It's been 5 years since this was releasd. Anyway, great band, and this is a good album with lots of highlights.