Had they recorded this album in, say, 1989 and maintained a steady trajectory since then, they might, just might, be on the same exalted plane as compatriots Candlemass. Yes, it's that good, and had they maintained this calibre, readers outside of Sweden would recognise the name. The whole album has a potent '80s air, albeit with a far more lucid production, and the vocalist is easily comparable to a certain Messiah Marcolin. (If you need to ask "Who's that?"...) The retro spirit extends beyond traditional metal motifs and into classic '70s prog rock, including several wholly unexpected and surprisingly effective jaunty folk interludes. Black Sabbath may have been an influence, but hard rock bands were no less influential. There's little more to say, other than to strongly recommend this creative album by the born too early doomsters.