The Lorraine Cross was the symbol of the Free French Forces during World War II. It is a powerful symbol for those unwilling to yield to forces of oppression. French power metal act LORRAINE CROSS use the symbol as a metaphor for their particular brand of resolute and uncompromising, leather clad Metal.

The band immediately shows what they're made of on opener "Sharpshooter". It's a thrilling rollercoaster ride of a power metal song. Guitars chime in unison before a driving assault of heavy power chords take over. It's a grandiose anthem for power metal fans everywhere. "Black Military" begins with a military stomp of drums before weaving in some stunning harmonised guitar lines. It's a genuinely unpredictable song that allows the band to fully demonstrate their strengths, providing a definite highpoint for the band. The pace continues on "One Bullet For Me" with singer Tony giving his voice a real vocal workout. The vocal gymnastics continue on the epic "Die In Your Arms". It's an aching ballad that sees the band create a real sense of space with subtle acoustic finger picking and soft keyboard chords. What could have been an overbearing ballad is adeptly handled replete with a spellbinding and soaring guitar solo. The first half of the album is excellent. It is full of arresting ideas and adept playing. The band tries to put their own stamp on the genre and mostly succeed with some elements worthy of power metal kings HAMMERFALL themselves.

Sadly, the album loses momentum about half way through. It soon becomes evident that the band don't have the songs to fill an entire album and the songs start to sound repetitive with ever diminishing returns. Nonetheless, the second half does have its moments. The guitar work is consistently accomplished throughout with the twin guitar attack particularly fluid on "The Slab Was Trapped". Similarly, "At Close Range" features a technical masterclass in soloing despite the song itself being a little too forgettable. This is the general problem with the album. When they hit on a memorable riff they tend to throw in another six rather than develop the best one. The result is that some songs just feel overstuffed. On occasions, the band would be better off keeping things simple.

On the whole, the album suffers due to its length and too much repetition in song structures. They are clearly a passionate band who wears their hearts on their sleeves. Over time the band should be able to channel their enthusiasm and zeal into something truly special. As it is, there is much to enjoy especially for those who are missing the rousing power metal of HAMMERFALL or HELLOWEEN.