During the days of “The Art Of Balance” I didn’t even have to think twice when asked if I was a SHADOWS FALL fan. My answer was always a definite no. I only liked about two songs off of the album and I didn’t really consider that enough to buy it. I’ll begin this review by stating that the guys in SHADOWS FALL have more than redeemed themselves with the release of “The War Within”. I had to go back and totally re-adjust my previous opinion of the band. Basically everything I thought about them was contradicted.

I know I know, everyone that knows me and knows me well is thinking, “What the HELL is wrong with Jenn? That flu bug she had last week must have warped her brain…” Well, no, not exactly. I just know a good album when I hear one!

“The War Within” is a solid album, that left me with a feeling of extremity, basically begging to hear more. That’s pretty much the only complaint I have about it, is the fact that it’s not long enough! The first thing I noticed about the album was the excellent over all production. Each individual instrument and vocal track is heard equally. Nothing is too over the top and everything balances perfectly.

I was especially impressed with the vocal and guitar work on the CD. Brian Fair’s vocals were definitely a major highlight for me. I don’t even know where to begin when it comes to commenting on the great riffs this album contains.

Favorite tracks of mine on this album include: “The Light That Blinds”, “Enlightened By The Cold”, “Stillness” and “Ghosts Of Past Failures”. If SHADOWS FALL continue to make these drastic improvements with future albums, then there’s no telling what incredible things they have in store for their fans the next go round. (Online November 22, 2004)