STORY OF JADE is an "Impure Horror Heavy Metal" band based out of Florence, Tuscany, Italy. To date they have released a Demo, and EP, and this is their second full-length album, containing eleven tracks. "Corridor" sets the tone for the album, with a short crescendo that sounds like you are descending the stairs into the house in the woods where the "Blair Witch Project" was filmed. From there, the title track of "Loony Bin" takes over, with a Thrash inspired riff. Though the vocals snarly in the upper ranges, I wouldn't call this Thrash Metal per se. The chorus is extended and there is a lot of harmony as well. I also hear if nothing else the underlying influence of NWOBHM bands. "The Book of Lies" carries a similar sound. It is a riff driven song that takes full advantage of the broad vocal range and style of singer Bapho Matt. "Psychosis in a Box" sees a slower approach, and some distinguished keyboards and perhaps more intentional songwriting. This song could make a fantastic baseline for some more exploration and depth.

"Symphonies from the Grave" is an exercise in story telling; a mid-tempo song more of a swinging riff. I can hear a bit more evil here at the fundamental level. "Room 501" poses some intriguing elements, especially with the use of piano and some tempo changes. You get the sense that inside the room is some sort of twisted and morbid experiments taking place. The vocal chants and background sounds play into this well. "Blood Hangover" is darker and deeper still. There is a nice contrast between the bottom heavy end of the instruments and the raspy high end screech of the vocals here. Closing the album is the seven-minute song "Horror Me(N)tal Disorder." There is a long, suspenseful lead in that is rightfully chilling. Some tempo and key changes keep the track moving along nicely. Stylistically, this is OVERKILL meets W.A.S.P without the slickness of the production or overuse of melody. The music is interesting and performed well, but failed to make a lasting impression on me. Nor was I able to pick up on a strong "Horror" theme, lyrics notwithstanding.

I think there is a blueprint however for this band to really kick it up a notch, with some more instrumentation and strong accents on passages to really give it some punch and depth, especially with the truly outstanding vocal capabilities that Bapho Matt possesses.