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With Vengeance Descending Crystal Eyes proved the old adage of third time lucky. Truly a charming, dazzling release that reveals its greatness over time – much like a fine wine. My initial gripe with Crystal Eyes was the vocals from ring-leader Michael Dahl which are certainly an acquired taste, however over the years of listening to this album I've grown quite accustomed to his vocals, finding them quite enjoyable. Obviously the main point of interest with this album is that vocal god Daniel Heiman appears on one of the tracks, and I can assure you now that it's worth the price of admission alone. What I find is really cool about Crystal Eyes is the brilliant guitar work, utterly inventive and evoking a playful carnival-like feeling.

Ten cuts of Power Metal goodness is the general game plan with only the one ballad – the album closer – which is tastefully done. The guitar work of Jonathan Nyberg and Michael Dahl is sublime in every track, from the cool 80's inspired title track to the awesome "Beast In Velvet". I guess you're starting to wonder what track Daniel Heiman appears on? That would be the mighty "The Wizards Apprentice", without a shadow of a doubt the coolest song these guys have ever written, featuring majestic fret-board acrobatics and obviously some of the best vocal work around. All in all Vengeance Descending is a really charming and catchy Power Metal album, not exactly breaking new ground but unique enough to warrant a look. A sorely underrated act who have been slugging it out since the early 90's – these guys deserve your attention. Recommended