IMAGES OF EDEN is the brainchild of vocalist and founder Gordon Tittsworth, and was originally brought into being sometime around 1998. Their latest album, "Angel Born", was released worldwide on March 26, 2021, and is the follow-up to 2018's "Soulrise". It is a strong concept album, continuing the tradition of releasing material focusing on the trials and tribulations of life on life's terms; armed with and steeped in the guidance of faith. Musically, they seem to combine elements from every genre of Metal in their sound, from the heaviest of guitar tones to the most beautiful Progressive Metal flavorings. Lyrically, they have created a song cycle dealing with the end of life, and the effects it carries for those left behind. The material isn't in the least bit "preachy" or heavy handed; as it instead stares the listener in the eyes, seemingly challenging them to look closely into themselves for the answers. The material is heavy, well crafted and extremely intelligent in both premise and delivery.

"Autumn Is Burning" opens the album, and wastes little time getting to the heart of the matter. Brilliant lyricism dominates this song, which has a very progressive feel about it, musically; almost bearing a Geoff Tate-led Queensryche sound about it. The lyrics "Save, please save me/ I'm so afraid of what will come/ Oh please, will you forgive me" speak volumes, and, for me, set the tone of what was to come with the remainder of the album. Tittsworth's voice on this track is amazing, as it is throughout the release, and the rest of the band follows suit.

"Angel Born", the title track, continues along similar lines, with equally impressive lyrical imagery and creatively brutal musicianship. Steve Dorssom is an impressive drummer/percussionist, and he drives this song from the opening notes. Equally impressive in his ability, guitarist Victor Morell changes gears here quite often, offering texture throughout, and shining brightly on a well-placed solo. Surprisingly, I found a cover of the TRIUMPH classic "Fight The Good Fight"about midway through this twelve song release. It takes a special breed of musician to attempt such a thing, as the original was near perfect; but IMAGES OF EDEN pulls it off swimmingly, with Tittsworth's voice shining.

Go into this record with an open mind; and give the cycle an honest listen. I think you will find it as amazing as I did. I was painfully unaware of this band going into this review, but I will now be diving through their back catalog with a fervor. The feeling that "Angel Born" has left with me is undeniable.