NO EXIT

Enter new vocalist Ray Adler but that's about the only major change from their previous release "Awaken The Guardian". Like it's predecessor "No Exit" is punishingly heavy and quite dark. The band thanks WATCHTOWER and QUEENSRYCHE in the liner notes, and it wouldn't be such a stretch to say this release is like a cross between these two bands.

I have to agree with heyitsthatguy that it seems strange that this record is named after this 41 second opening song, that is a slow paced vocal and guitar piece that is rather forgettable. The first two songs do not do anything to make fans forget about John Arch as the vocals in both are not his best by a long shot. I actually find them almost annoying in the second song "Anarchy Divine" but the guitar throughout is great as the drums and bass provide a good rhythm. "Silent Cries" is one of the best songs on the album and the faster paced sections sound similar to the previous song but it's the quieter, atmospheric passages that make this song so amazing ! "In A Word" is another incredible tune with passionate vocals and wild guitar moments. Great song ! "Shades Of Heavenly Death" opens with pounding drums and guitar that is on fire in this uptempo rocker.The vocals get better as the song goes along. Nice guitar solo 3 minutes in and at 4 minutes the song gets even heavier and darker.

"The Ivory Gate Of Dreams" is a side long track that consists of 8 sections beginning with "Innocence" an acoustic guitar track that is just over a minute long. In "Cold Daze" the power is turned up. Here we go ! This is a melodic, uptempo section with scorching guitars. In "Daylight Dreams" Ray's vocals are at their best even singing in the same style as Mr.Arch. The ending of this section is heavy duty. The "Quietus" section is one of my favourites on the album. Opening with piano this is pastoral until things start to pick up with some good guitar melodies and pounding drums.This all accellerates even more and it sounds awesome ! The section ends as it began with piano. "Ivory Tower" rocks out really good, with guitars galore. "Whispers In The Wind" opens with acoustic guitar as the vocals and drums are added to this slow paced tune. "Aquiescence" is hard, fast and heavy. The ending section "Retrospect" is a minute of acoustic guitar.

This may not be as good as "Awaken The Guardian" but if you liked that record i'm sure you'll like this one as well. I highly recommend this beast !