I had always been a fan of Machine Head, not a massive fan, but I listen to their stuff and liked it. However, they out did themselves on this album. This album is just simply amazing. It's heavier than the last two albums, it has sick album artwork, shredding riffs and awesome lyrics. If metal was one album, THIS would be that album.

This album is classical driven. By that I don't mean it has violins and cellos, but the music's structure is very built and inspired by classical music. While the entire album is just epic, here a few highlights and a basic overview:

The album opens up with a melodic choir singing "Sangre Sani" over and over again. (Which I believe means "Blood Saint" in Latin.) Until a ground shaking riff and Flynn's blood curdling growls of "I AM DEATH". The song soon changes it's pace into a much faster Thrashier song which is indeed unbelievable live.

The track Locust was the one, however, that blew me away. Not only are the lyrics well thought out, but the guitar work is amazing, especially the melodic interlude. Rob Flynn stated in an interview with Metal Hammer, that is was the hardest song he has ever written.

The albums Ballard, Darkness Within is an instant classic. The song can relate to all of us in many ways lyrically: Music is our savior. When you can't turn to religion, or people, you turn to music. Rob Flynn's vocals on this track have to be the best on the album. He goes from melodic singing, to screaming to repetitive growls of "MUSIC MY SAVIOR" towards the end of the song.

I recommend this to any metal lover, even if you are not a fan of Machine Head, or lost interest after The Burning Red. This album is just simply mind blowing.