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After kicking my ass with their debut The Curse of the Crystal Viper and their compilation The Last Axeman, Crystal Viper release this album, Metal Nation. So my expectations weren't as high because I didn't think they could possibly top those records. couldn't have been more wrong, because this album is a million times better than the first in every way possible.

Like the debut, this album features the stellar voice of front babe Marta "Leather Wych" Gabriel. Her stellar voice is an absolute highlight of the record. Her charisma, mid-range voice and high screams are out of this world as they put many male vocalists to shame. Also like in the debut she has a knack for catchiness as you'll be remembering her vocal lines long after the album is over. The rhythm session is equally as good, bass that you can hear and drums that will punish your skull. But the true highlight for me, as far as musicianship is concerned, are the guitarists: they completely take over the album. They pull out punishing riffs and melting solos like it was the easiest thing in the world, amazing!!!

Then there are the songs: 9 incredible original masterpieces and an Agent Steel cover that blows away the original. Nothing remotely close to filler or a song that sucks, they absolutely rule in every possible way. There is even a ballad (if you can call it that) in "Her Crimson Tears" and needless to say it is good, the way that type of song should be played. Normally I would try to find something wrong with an album but in this case I really can't. This is true Heavy Metal at its finest folks. With its strong choruses and catchy melodies, the album will bring a smile on everyone's face.

Metal Nation is a strong contender for album of the year. To me this is an instant classic and people will be talking about this record for years to come as one of the greatest metal albums ever.

P.S. That is a very cool cover art.