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It's been some 6 years since the last studio album from the Arlington, VA old schoolers. Too long, but the result doesn't disappoint. Old school, non-commercial raw heavy metal is what October 31 are about, and this new one delivers the goods with no compromise whatsoever. Overall the style is similar to the one adopted in "Meet Thy Maker", although this one here isn't as catchy and is a bit darker overall. The lyrics are quite dark once again, keeping in line with October 31's usual subject matter. The quality of the songs is more constant on this one, however, unlike "Meet Thy Maker" whose first half was better than the second (which nonetheless ruled in its own right.) There's a couple of instantly memorable tunes here, such as "Commit to Sin" which will most likely become a crowd pleaser at live shows, and also the emotion-filled closer "Misfortune" which is less catchy but still leaves a lasting impression and doesn't get boring for a second despite going over the 8-minute mark.

King Fowley sounds in top shape despite his recent serious health problems. His raw and raucous voice sounds as good as ever, and he even crank the high-pitched vocals a couple of notches on the excellent cover of Overkill's "Wrecking Crew". I found the drum sound a bit annoying at times, with a little "clickety" sound that is kind of a concentration-breaker, but it's a minor thing on what is overall an excellent album that rocks from beginning to end. Like the rest of this band's discography, this album is mandatory for any fan of old school, unpolished and raw heavy metal.