The GRAND MAGUS ascent continues to gather pace, building on 2005's "Wolf's Return" with an even more impressive collection that whilst unique enough to ensure they're not labeled merely copyists, maintains the sense that the band still hold the sound of Dio era BLACK SABBATH in considerably high esteem; "Heaven And Hell" in particular and late 70s/early 80s metal in general once again the template for much of the album.

From powerful opener "Like The Oar Strikes The Water" to the bass lead epic metal of closing track "I Am The North" with its triumphant "Free Forever" cry, this is just a great album providing so much of what I personally want in a metal album. Hooked from the first crunch, each and everything on this album is a must hear. Title track "Iron Will" rolls along with such a catchy groove, occasionally adding a folky feel to the thunder, that its such an obvious pick for rock raDio station and quite simply must get attention. "The Shadow Knows" changes tack sound wise employing a razor sharp riff akin to early MAIDENs "Prowler" for another standout track whilst "Self Deceiver" in both title and style seems to nod also towards classic PRIEST. All the way through though that polished power SABBATH achieved post-Ozzy refuses to go away and the quality achieved really does stand favorable comparison to the first two Dio fronted albums.

This is classic metal the way it should be played; heavy but tuneful, lyrics legible and sung (and what a performance there too!) rather than shouted or grunted, solos that suit the song rather than the guitarists ego and at about forty minutes for the nine songs no bloody filler padding things out. To date the name GRAND MAGUS has shown in the small print on many a festival poster; if this release doesn't see the font size grow remarkably there is no justice in this world. A superb album, highly recommended.

- Leslie

OFFICIAL SITE: www.grandmagus.com

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