Frontiers is expanding the type of music they sign to include melodic power metal. WS is a long way away from the standard Frontiers/Now & Then fare. The sacrificial scene on the front cover (complete with naked woman, natch) are the first clue that is not another Journey-alike band. What they are, despite the death-metalesque cover, are a decent power metal band from Italy. This lot are good enough that Udo from Accept signed them to his label. Although, he might be surprised to hear them, now, as their new singer is a bloke, and he signed them with a female vocalist. This is a concept album of sorts centering around the Inqusition. The songs do stand on their own, however. The second half of the album beginning with the excellent 'Devil's Woman' is quickly followed by the impressive 'Torture'. It is a shame the first half isn't more consistent and memorable, or this would be a great album. This lot are certainly one to watch in the future.

Marty Dodge 7