(Rated this album with 8 out of 10) Reviewed by
daniel knouse
from vancouver, washington United States
4.5 stars. The only two songs here that don't live up to the inspired level of the rest of the album are the songs "Diary" and "Burning Oasis." "Diary" is intricate and masterfully played but it just never takes off, leaving an impression more of musicianship than of striking an emotional chord. While "Burning Oasis" is good but eventually forgettable. Now for the tons of praise that this album deserves. "Burnt Offerings" is a fantastic blast of power which every opening song should have. "Last December" is probably the most underrated track here while "Brainwashed" continues the fury initiated by the opening song. "Creator Failure" is an exceptional track and near its end Matthew Barlow finally hits those high registers with some awesome results. "The Pierced Spirit" is a solid ballad with piano and background winds and is certainly the calm before the storm. "Dante's Inferno" is undeniably the masterpiece here with incredible lyrical imagery and superb songwriting. This is easily one of my favorite Iced Earth studio creations. It is both inspired and sinister, which makes for a memorable combination. Take it easy.
