The most recent release from old-time classic metal band Blitzkrieg is slightly disappointing considering the time they've now had to hone their skills, yet the same old problems remain. First is the persistence of line-up changes seemingly rearranging the band every year and destroying any kind of chemistry that could go towards the songwriting process, and second is that Brian Ross' singing, while cool and high in the early eighties way, still sounds weak and frankly dull as he delivers narratives that should be compelling, but end up sounding unconvincing and even slightly daft.

Released in 2007, this benefits from a crisp modern production job that even brings out Paul Brewis' clunking bass, but also draws attention to the repetitive style of the other instruments, especially Ken Johnson and Guy Laverick's guitars. The only really interesting guitar riff in the album is the one that leads the otherwise bland 'Devil's Spawn,' and even that's directly pinched from Testament. Even their attempt at tackling the Phantom of the Opera tale in track two ends up less satisfying than all the other versions I've heard from the likes of Iron Maiden, Iced Earth, Anachronia and even the Misfits, but I guess it's still superior to Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Blitzkrieg's albums always tend towards similarity in the later songs and this is no exception, the best material always being used up early on, but considering the amusing subject matter and possibility of an overarching concept, I'd expected much more.

1. Theatre of the Damned
2. The Phantom
3. Devil's Spawn
4. My Life is My Own
5. Spirit of the Legend
6. The Passing
7. Into the Light
8. Tortured Souls
9. Together We Are Strong
10. Night Stalker