I have to admit that I was extremely and pleasantly surprised when I popped this album into the old CD player.

I wasn't expecting what I got. This is truly an epic masterpiece of an album. Some of the melodies seem so great that it is hard to imagine that they haven't been done before. I had a "why didn't I think of that?" moment at least four times during my repeated listening. As the bio sheet claims, this isn't solely a Power Metal album it breaks the mold and forges ahead into its own new territories. It opens up fast and never relents. "Face Of Evil" is a killer song with great harmony vocals and the playing is stellar. The singer, Taage Laiho, has a remarkable range that doesn't take long to show itself. He can be completely clean and can also be a bit scratchy; whatever he feels the song needs. The guitar playing is a mix neo classical soloing and crunchy traditional Metal licks. I dare anyone to listen to "Guilty" and not grin like a fool. The only band I can compare them to is PRIMAL FEAR. They are not as heavy on a song by song basis, but the sound is there. With only two releases into their career, I can't yet accurately judge which band is better to me.

As for the production, it is crystal clear. Nothing seems to be either too high or too low in the mix. I have noticed that seems to be a problem in some new releases, maybe to hide a defect that they feel they have, or due to unprofessionalism. GHOST MACHINERY has no such problems and everything is played clearly without pitch problems or muddy playing. "Blood From Stone" starts out with a keyboard element that is incorporated nicely and once the harmonies kick in, it's simply tremendous. What I really like is the fact that I actually don't need to read the lyrics to understand the words. That is a rarity in Power Metal, but as I said before, nothing is buried in the mix and thankfully, that includes the vocals.I hear a slight bit of HELLOWEEN at the beginning of the song "Name Remains In History", but that stops as soon as the vocals start, itseems to exist only in the opening music. This band has its own identity and it's a good one. I can see these guys going over big. There is no reason on earth for them not to. They deserve our support. Do not download this album. This is a band that deserves your money. If you choose to obtain a copy of the album, do it the correct way.

Overall, this is an awesome CD. Most elements are done to perfection. Please give the song "Eternal Damnation" a listen to see what I mean. The shredding guitar solo in the song is magnificent. I don't think there is any band out there right now that has put out a better album this year. I am not sure anyone can. It truly is that good.If you like Power Metal or even progressive Metal, give this album a chance, and if you do like it, then by all means recommend it to your friends. This is a band that deserves to stick around because I can't wait to hear what comes next. I bet you will feel the same way after hearing it for yourself. This will make a perfect addition to your Metal collection.