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Tombstone is a weird band. I guess they are somewhat known in Finland for having a comedy TV series or something like that, but what's important is that they play a Teutonic-style power metal with a little bit of sleaziness. Shadows of Fear is their second album and it sounds a little bit like a mix between Manowar and Wizard, but with less beaver-fur thongs and more "in your face" attitude. The laid-back, unpretentious lyrics fit with the entire aesthetic of the band, but the tracks can feel schizophrenic because of this. Sometimes it seems like Metalium fell into a pool of Gouda and became so sticky that they can't help themselves but to go as pompous, epic and ... well, cheesy as they can to match this larger-than-life attitude.

Instrumental-wise the album kicks ass, especially when they are being more aggressive like in "Toxic Avenger" and "The Master," and vocalist Kenneth Nylund has an interesting, powerful voice for power metal, so the final product sounds good and polished. All in all, these dudes have some strong moments allied with a few irritating parts. With some moderate adjustments in the songwriting part and in the musical approach, this could have been much better. It's an interesting album, but suited only for hardcore fans of this particular style.