A very interesting little band from the latter period of NWOBHM. This album originally came out in ’85 just after the band had split up. Brainchild of ex-Angel Witch bassist Kevin Skids Riddles, and had Steve Gibbs on guitar. On vocals was Kal Swan who would disappear to LA and team up with Doug Aldrich to form Lion. The drummer on the album was ex-Judas Priest drummer, Les Binks.
The metal takes a back seat as the emphasis is on the melody and songs with taking advantage of Swan’s great voice. It all sounds a bit dated listening back today, but songs like Blind Men & Fools, Rude Awakening, and The Watcher are really good songs. My favourite track is Ballad of Edward Case, which is a great up-tempo rocker. A worthy addition to collectors of NWOBHM.
8/10 from The Grooveman.
