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It took me over 6 months to find this album and since it's an import, it cost me about twice as much as a domestic release (it's now available at a very low price from The End Records.)

Was it worth it?  You bet!  Steel Attack is a melodic speed metal band from Sweden and this is their debut album (they entered the studio on April 3 to record their second album.)  Let me tell you, Where Mankind Fails kicks some serious ass!  Do not look for ballads here, this is fast-paced from beginning to end, and guitar solos are not only very present, but a lot of them are simply memorable.

As soon as the first song, Dragon's Skull started, I was kind of afraid that the vocals would be "so-so"... Fortunately, the first few seconds of that song are the only place where I can make such a comment.  The lead vocalist has a great voice, well in tune with the music.  Most of the choruses are sung by the whole band, and I find their combined singing a bit unique, and it took me a couple of listens to get used to it.

Where Mankind Fails is a concept album (I'll let you figure it out - hint: the title) and it is interesting to follow the lyrics, which by the way are pretty good.  Steel Attack is definitely a band to keep an eye on.  This album reveals a lot of talent for both songwriting and playing.  Simply put, this is some damn good melodic speed metal.  I do not regret the price I paid the least bit, it was worth every penny.