Review by JD on April 16, 2011.

Every now and then, I come across a band that makes my jaw hit the floor. After all of the years of playing and writing about metal, those times become few and far between as the years pass. I now found that moment again and I cannot believe my ears as UK Prog/Thrash masters Hunted assaults my soul.

Mixing with equal parts of Progressive music and a massive wall of Power/Thrash metal, then add in elements of some classic Speed as well - Hunted is on the prowl for your metallic souls. Sort of like Dream Theatre and older Megadeth with some hinting of Iron Maiden with vocals a la Rob Halford (Judas Priest) as well. It is these parts, that come together to make a headbangers wet dream.

Songs like the strong riff power of 'Chose'n resonate with power while the more lyrically massive track called 'Scars' show this is a band that is at the top of its game. With mega talent as well as this uncanny knack for penning songs that are so intelligent while remaining gigantically heavy... I think bands like Dream Theatre need to be looking over their collective shoulders because Hunted is right on their heels.

I sit here, sipping a coffee and listening to the album again while I finish writing this review. This album still holds such power for me even though I have listened to the album abut twenty times (doing a review, I usually do three or four). This is still as good as the first and I love the Halford like vocals. Must be the old school metalhead in me. It is just a joy to be doing this review right now; looking forward to hearing more from Hunted.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

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

Rating: 9.3 out of 10