LILLIAN AXE have described "XI: The Days Before Tomorrow" as their best album to date, and I'd be very inclined to agree with them. This is the band's newest album, and their first with vocalist Brian Jones, who fits in perfectly.

The band have been described as writing everything from acoustic ballads to hard rocking epics, and this album shows the full range of their talents. There's one thing for definite about the songs on this album, they're very catchy, especially the heavier ones. There are plenty of brilliant riffs throughout, complemented by the brilliant lyrics, singing and general musicianship on display. In my opinion, LILLIAN AXE do extremely well on this album when they're playing the slower songs, but that might just be because I'm a sucker for a ballad! But seriously, the emotion that Jones puts into his vocals, and the emotions conveyed in the music was awesome to hear. But of course, the band is quite simply superb when they're rocking it up and delivering some big choruses and even bigger riffs.

LILLIAN AXE have been through quite a few personnel changes over the years, even disbanding in 1995 before reuniting 4 years later, but this current lineup is just as awesome as any other. I've mentioned Jones's vocals previously, but he really does make you feel the emotion and power in every word that he sings. The guitar work is particularly impressive, doing equally well with Heavy Metal riffs, and the slower acoustic tracks. Koudelka's drumming certainly deserves a mention here, because it's just brilliant. He adds to every track wonderfully. If I had to recommend one song from the album, it'd be my personal favourite, "Death Comes Tomorrow". An awesome chorus and one that's going to remain in my head for a while.

"XI: The Days Before Tomorrow" delivers a heck of a lot in terms of song writing quality, and musicianship. LILLIAN AXE have certainly done themselves proud with this release, and fans of the band are sure to love it.