SAVAGE MASTER is back from "the very depths of hell and darkness" with their second full-length album "With Whips and Chains". This comes two years after the release of their first full-length album and two full US tours. SAVAGE MASTER was formed in Louisville, KY, United States. With the release of "With Whips and Chains" comes a ten-track album and a listening time of over thirty-three minutes. This album brings back Stacey's devil's screech and classic heavy metal guitar riffs in this occult heavy metal quartet.

Track one, "Call of the Master" starts the album off in a storybook, ritual way with the spoken incantation and a march filled drumbeat. This track sends the perfect occult vibe while keeping the true sound hidden. This track is the very essence of the occult and creates mysticism and wonder. "Dark Light of the Moon", the second track, is where we get a glimpse at what we can expect throughout the rest of the album.  The drums and guitars come in faster and harder on this track giving way to the female main vocals. Her vocals fit well with over all sound, however, they feel a little more punk than I originally thought a hard rock band would produce. It's an interesting mix.

Track five, "Vengeance Is Steel"", is a well-rounded track. The guitars and bass are low and gloomy and gruff. Each element defined by the other, but nice on their own. The vocals do not fit well in this track and feel more overlaid or perhaps just out of place.  Track seven, "Satan's Crown" is better at incorporating all elements of the band, most of all the vocals. It sound "right", whatever that means. This is a fun track and shows SAVAGE MASTER have a strong ability to make creative and original music. The guitars are gloriously mastered and help maintain an energetic track.

The final track, "Ready to Sin" is spirited and pulls out all the stops for this demonic album. Being the longest track in their album they were able to add tidbits that allows the listener to understand the band a little better and all those riffs. The riffs at the end not only complete the track but compete the album. This album is tricky because some of it has some really good meat and creativeness, but then some of the album seems forced and incohesive. It is a fun listen and the story behind the album is pretty cool.