Reviewed by Ben Martin

From the outset of this inventive and attention-grabbing album, there is something which sets Theocracy out from the rest of the Christian power-metal crowd. The influences flow thick an fast, most notably Symphony X and Dream Theater as well as Iced Earth, although this album leans far more towards the power-metal style with intensity that never lets up throughout the album. This 2008 release brings something new and original to a scene which had begun to grow stale. Soaring melodies kick in on tracks like "On Eagle's Wings" with rich vocal harmonies floating over the rapid, skilful drum work, tight rhythms and dextrous guitar playing. They continue with the anthemic "Laying The Demon To Rest" which is the perfect combination of traditional heavy metal with riffs that will have you headbanging on your sofa. Concluding the album is the 22 minute long epic "Mirror Of Souls" which is enthralling until the very end. Lyrically inspiring and musically fresh they bring an album which brings together many different influences to have crafted a most excellent work. Notable praise must be given to Matt Smith for writing the majority of the music, combining inspired music and lyrics. An adroit album, this is surely one of the best and most underrated Christian metal releases of 2008.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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