Wow! Those who haven't had their heads blown away by good, solid power metal since Barren Cross will be glad to hear the arrival of this competent outfit from Albuquerque, New Mexico. The backbone of this quintet is quite able to rattle your speakers with a solid, tight rhythm. Drummer Brian Tromblay shows his muscle often with power hits on his kit. Guitarists Nathan Johnson and Phil Quintana compliment each other on loud 'n' clear leads and double up to form a wall of sound for the rhythms. "Our God Reigns," a praising declaration of God's character and position, starts this four-song tape off with a roar, showcasing the powerful vocals of Albert Baca. "Worthy" is another praise-filled tune that is worthy of the description "Worship at full volume." The tune "On Fire" shows the band writing what would've passed for Stryper lyrics in '85. Those who dig a band that is bold about its faith and centers its every lyric around that faith will embrace this outfit with hands held high. "Second Wind" shows a melodic side to the band that reminds me of early Def Leppard, with its plodding tempo and pouting vocals; and then the song breaks open into a beautiful anthemic chorus with well-crafted BGV's. This song shows that the band can handle more than one sound with excellence. To order, send $5 to: 988 Mountain Valley Road, Tijeras NM 87059.
