I wasn't quite sure what to expect from these Frenchmen. I thought that if they have been around for about 20 years give or take and their first album was all in French that they would suck. Well, I was shocked to hell. This CD is one piece of incredible work. "Paranormal Magnitude" doesn't break down the doors or beat the sound barrier. Instead, you get a melodic opener that tosses in power when needed and the gritty voice is simply killer. The chants that come in during the choruses are bombastic and unexpected. This may not be the heaviest track to open the CD, but it definitely caught my attention.

"The Rise Of A Child" proves to be more symphonic and powerful without utilizing a philharmonic orchestra. Impressive! Jesus Christ! 'Strange Connection" is only the third track and I am hooked completely on this band and release. Here, the riffs grab you right from the first note. The solos are slick and enticing. What makes this band so listenable is the fact that they don't have to include rapid fire double bass drumming or scorching technical guitar performances. They just do their thing without worrying what they other bands are doing and that is what makes them a success. Also, the guys are constantly changing the tempos, but never drastically. It's all a smooth transaction.

As you can tell with the titles listed above, this is a concept album. While lyrically, this may not be as compelling as "Operation Mindcrime", but the music will hook you in from beginning to end. I am glad my expectations about this band were completely off. This was the surprise of the year for me and this isn't your typical Power Metal band. NIGHTMARE has so much more to offer the fan. This is a damn near perfect album. Must buy Now! (Online April 1, 2005)