To be honest, I am not big on the whole retro 80s trend that's been going on these last few years. I believe that from an artistic point of view there is no point in trying to rehash things that were already done so greatly back then and I am not talking about bands that made a comeback with great albums such as TESTAMENT, DEATH ANGEL and HEATHEN, I am merely addressing bands who were formed in recent years who try to sound like bands from the 80s.

I don't think there is anything wrong with it as I believe that each musician should only do what feels right and nothing else but I fail to see the point in this kind of efforts, still, when INTENSE came out with their third album, "As Our Army Grows" in 2007 they somehow managed to catch my attention so I tuned in to see if it would also be the case with the fourth one "The Shape of Rage". However, artistically speaking, there isn't really anything here that differs from the great Heavy Metal albums of the 80s. Yet, there are several things that still make INTENSE a stand out.

First and foremost is the burst of energy that erupt from the songs that immediately save them from being a banal and stale rehash. Secondly there is of course the musicianship of the band's members. The song construction on the album is 100% by the book but everything is performed with so much skill and grace so one can't simply dismiss it. The solos, hooks, opening riffs, choruses, everything is tastefully done and falls into place as it should. Thirdly there is the modern production value. Hardcore old school fans probably won't like it but I think that one of the advantages of many retro bands from recent years is that they give us the opportunity to enjoy old school music but with a proper sound. The production on this album is highly remarkable, very clear and balanced, nothing gets swallowed except maybe the bass lines a little bit but that is something that is almost unavoidable in Heavy Metal.

This album is a definite must for fans of the genre, others may skip it but a fun experience is guaranteed for all.