Inner Sanctum, The (+DVD) [Digipak] - Saxon

Advantages: Not overlong at 10 tracks, gets better with each listen.
Disadvantages: Opening track not the strongest.

...All the best records take a few listens (at least) to reveal their true nature. On first play this sounded like a typical 2nd album - longer tracks, less up-tempo. A month on this has to be my favourite CD of 2007. Nearly all the 10 tracks have resolved into fantastic, atmospheric (and not always gloomy!) tales of urban life and escape. Great tunes underpin the songs, with the now-trademark steepling guitar riffs standing out most in the choruses. Some not unwelcome echos of The Smiths are to be found in the lyrics, most obviously in the title track, but tracks like Weight of the World and Escape The Nest are really uplifting, the latter also containing the finest moments on the album with its soaring, thrilling chorus. What a live track that promises to be... Recommended! Ok then, what about the digipak? Well if you like a glossy... Read review

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Advantages: Saxon Still Going
Disadvantages: Nothing Outstanding

...On the same German label as Motorhead, this actually covers a lot of the same topics as the 'Head, although in a very different style of course. That style is defined by good old Biff Byford, a singer whose voice I've always loved. This is one band which you just cannot imagine without their lead vocalist. "Gothic Dreams" is a one-and-a-half minute intro piece. Oh no, have Saxon gone all pretentious and mellow on us? Fear not, because "Unleash The Beast" is full of myths and mists and, above all, geetars. "Terminal Velocity" (about parachuting) and "Circle of Light" (near-death experiences – some would say a follow-on from the last track!) continue in the same vein. Soldiers, in particular "men from Harloch" (sic), appear as "The Thin Red Line" strays into the war zone, then it's politicians in the firing line again on "Ministry... Read review

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Advantages: Technically advanced, melodic, powerful, well produced
Disadvantages: No CD Inlay (Small pickup)

.... This is quite possibly the best track in the Digipak. If you are a progressive metal/rock fan, or enjoy complex and technical music then this is for you. It's a great purchase, well produced, and highlights Dream Theater at their best. TRACK LISTING Disc 1- 1. Root Of All Evil 2. I Walk Beside You 3. Another Won 4. Afterlife 5. Under A Glass Moon 6. Innocence Faded Disc 2- 1. Six Degrees Of Inner Turbulence 2. Vacant 3. Answer Lies WithinListen Listen 4. Sacrificed Son's Disc 3- 1. Octavarium 2. Metropolis... Read review

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