Review by JD on January 29, 2014.

Poland is becoming a melting pot of metal, while keeping its identity intact. No longer just a bastion for extreme metal, it is now a hotspot for all sorts of metal. They still are one of the major exporters of the extreme ends of the metallic spectrum - but Poland is showing that they are a growing global force in the scene.

Warsaw based Exlibris is a power metal act, with some badly hidden progressive metal parts to it. It is sweeping, brash, and catchy yet still has headbanging appeal to it. Think Gamma Ray/Helloween with vocals like early Queensryche. Classy, powerful, so very talented, yet this band delivers music that is still fucking heavy as anything out there… cheque please.

I was totally impressed with how Exlibris has come about developing their sound. They're sounding like classic European power metal, and yet having that extra level with usage of progressive riffs and vocals that make them stand out a little more. Clearly, Exlibris are forging their own way and making amazing music as they do so.

This album is a good vehicle for Exlibris to show that they are shaping their own destiny with class and power. With some time and patience to perfect this sound of theirs to its glorious maturity, power metal will get what it needs - a preverbal swift kick in the ass. This was not a perfect album, just a hell of a good one. The next album will tell the tale.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 8.5
Originality: 8.5
Overall: 9

Rating: 8.9 out of 10