First of all, try to find another example of a band from New Zealand relocating to British Colombia, Canada. I dare you, hell I double dog dare you! Actually some of the members are from Canada so that makes more sense. Chris Valagao is the vocalist of ZIMMER'S HOLE, a criminally underrated Progressive Metal band and Jordy Knute is the current guitarist from local band REVENGER. In 2002 they established WEST OF HELL with fellow New-Zealanders Sean Parkinson, Jordan Knute and Paul Drummond. They are not an overly productive band and this is only their second release in 17 years of existence. But most of these guys have other bands but now their sole focus is on this band for the time being.

Sean Parkinson and Jordy Knute are relentless with their guitar work and they complement each other greatly. They have that quality of musicianship like Marty Friedman, Jason Becker or even a bit of old school Yngwie Malmsteen. You got some blazing solos at breakneck speeds. They seem to be even more comfortable than on the first album and they do it with ease. They can go from the various breakdowns and slow riffs to some classic shredding in the matter of seconds. It doesn't feel forced at all and the effort is seamless. They really consistently shift from one style to another but it doesn't get repetitive. This band is a breath of fresh air. It's a bit for the more nostalgic people out there that really love intricate instrumental parts but with a singer that had that range you can only dream of. You have that classic feeling of the early 80's goodness but it has that modern twist. It really is an absolute blast to listen to it and I really wanted the album to a bit longer, it was so good, I didn't want it to end.

Like I said beforehand, Chris Valagao has a unique voice; he can go from growling to groove metal and he can have this really high pitched Rob Halford - esque vocals. The singer belts it out like the best of them. This band made of Kiwis and Canadians managed to create an awesome band that at the end of the day, is innovative yet classic. The whole vibe is very reminiscent of another British Colombian metal band, the under-appreciated 3 INCHES OF BLOOD. They are no filler songs whatsoever, everything is there for a reason. The next great Canadian Metal band, I sure hope so! I am definitely going to check them out on the 14^th of April at the Piranha here in good old Montreal!