I will never forget the first time I heard the song "Baneful Skies" back in 1999 with its METALLICA meets MAIDEN appeal, and those GRAVE DIGGER gruff vocals spouted by Thorsten "Buddy" Kohlrausch. After the release of their self-titled album in 2006, the band called it quits. Thankfully they recently reunited will their original lineup and we are treated to this (EP) which is damn good and recaptures the sound DARK AT DAWN made famous within the light of their storied career.

From the first beams of the light flute Folk inspired "Coming Home" which instantly gains momentum and reminds me of early FALCONER and current GRAVE DIGGER, I know that all illusions are shattered and DARK AT DAWN have fulfilled their glorious duty.

Then in the blink of an eye, "Arabian Fights" with its arabesque cues and sitar situation truly echoes the black dream damnation of the Middle Eastern militia.  Feel the last embrace and heed the voice of the God Marduk as he watches over the assassins of the night in their eternal sleep.

The fulminating "Firedrunk" recalls the shanty swept rouse of "Sons Of The Sea", and alacrity of "Glorious Duty", while the cross breeding vibe of "Taking My Time" honors the traditional alliance between the self-titled release and "Of Decay And Desire".

If you are new to this band, then "Noneternal" is a befitting Avalon of achievement from a fearless band, who have risen above their frustrations. They truly have experienced a new awakening by melting away the crimson frost of their afflictions, and they are still willing to continue on the road of eternity as their anthem "Darkened Dawn" clearly expresses. Now is the dawning of new days! Don't pay the ferryman, don't even fix a price! You can make it on your own!

I cherish their music, their heresy, and their craft. I am excited that they have signed with AFM Records, and I look forward to hearing their new album in 2103.