I recieved Shadow Demon's self-titled, 3 song EP back in late 2003 and was thrilled with the result in every way. They brought us a highly recommended form of US Power Metal with influences haling from the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal scene. Satisfied as i was those days of reviewing this excellent, my inner soul was already waiting for the follow-up. I knew for sure hearing more from this Seattle based natives and check it out, Shadow Demon do my expectations end up with the release of a full length, new album entitled "Grimoire Of Ruin".

What's changed since then? A new drummer named Jay Davidson and also Ryan Gallagher entered the SD ranks to handle the lead guitars. The original members stayed together like true brothers of Metal so a renewed line-up is formed and trust me when i say that Shadow Demon sounds a lot better than three years ago. Was it worth as long as to wait? Sure it does! Blaine Hammond still do reminds me from time to time to Matt Barlow (ex-Iced Earth) or Hansi Kursch (Blind Guardian) but his vocally skills on this new album took another direction.

I mean, Blaine found his own way of singing which led to more originality and that's awesome. He was great on the EP, well check this guy out while doing his job on "Grimoire Of Ruin" and you'll be agree with me. For me, there's something changed regarding their style. There's more power and energy to observe than before. I'd like to call the new album something like US Power / Thrash Metal with a high appreciation factor. That's what i find of it of course! First song of the album " A Dream Of Dreams" keeps you pretty busy for at least 9 minutes without trouble moment. Great up tempo track "Drums Of War" is next in line, a superb Power Metal work with Thrash influences.

Speaking about Thrash Metal, better prepare for "The Dark Citadel:Part 1". Heavy tuned guitars and spine cracking tempo's, hang on for what's coming up! "...And The Meek" is one of my favourite songs because this one has a lethal dose of US Power Metal elements aboard, it cut my breath already. Brilliant vocals, awesome guitar riffs and wolo works to the extreme,...to make it short, phenomenal ! "Walking Among The Dead" is another song that gives ya'll the possibility banging your head like you never did before.

"Unbris Mortis" is another personal fave due to it sounds very US Metal minded and that's more than just OK to me. That the band is more original than before is recognizable by the last two songs entitled "Sea Of Oblivion" and "Red". Yeah, i'm pleased with the album. What i've heard was renewed and most important element to mention is that Shadow Demon is able to create awesome Power / Thrash Metal works at their own.

In searh for an oustanding Metal album with different forms of technical skills and a lot of musical prgresses? Your hunt just ended here with Shadow Demon! Check them out and spread the word of how great they really are. It's a totally acquisition for our world of Metal music, wish there were more of this gauge. More info to order via: www.shadowdemon.us  or  http://www.myspace.com/shadowdemon    www.cdbaby.com   MY POINTS: 94 / 100