The album kicks off with a “raw” introduction, a lead guitar riff consisting of alternating open notes on the high E (think of Iron Maiden‘s “Wasted Years”) with no accompaniment at all. However, drums and rhythm guitars are added, and eventually a layer of “ahhhs” by Tarja, before the song starts really riffing and crunching along. Although structurally, this song, “Dead Promises,” is fairly standard Tarja, the feeling and texture are a very rough and unpolished metal. Paired with the supporting vocals of Soilwork’s Björn Strid, the song does a respectable job of demanding the listener’s attention. While there are no wild pyrotechnics of guitars or keyboards, the song has enough novel elements to keep it listening, and a good opener.

01. Dead Promises (5:50)
02. Goodbye Stranger (5:12)
03. Tears in Rain (4:28)
04. Railroads (4:00)
05. You and I (4:07)
06. The Golden Chamber: Awaken / Loputon Yö / Alchemy (7:05)
07. Spirit of the Sea (6:56)
08. Silent Masquerade (7:32)
09. Serene (4:42)
10. Shadow Play (7:22)

Tarja Vocals, Piano
Max Lilja Cello
Alex Scholpp Guitars
Christian Kretschmar Keyboards, Piano, Hammond organ
Kevin Chown Bass

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