This is the sixth album for Grand Magus that are led by lead singer, and guitarist JB, whose real name is Janne Christoffersson, who became popular when he was singing for Spiritual Beggars from 2002 to 2005, after Spice left the band. Actually, Grand Magus’ core is him and bassist Fox, with their drummers going through the revolving door. At the moment, behind the kit we will find Ludwig Witt, from –you guessed right- Spiritual Beggars!
Comparing to the band’s previous works I’d say that their Sabbath-meets-Rainbow sound is present again, this time balancing a bit more towards the latter of their Dio era of course. Also, the epic-heroic thematology remains intact. Plus, JB’s magnificent performance on vocals with the distinctive voice of his is there. At the same time his guitar playing is not bad at all! If I had to point out a few songs as the album’s most representative, then I’d choose “The Hunt”, “Valhalla Rising” και “Iron Hand”, while I’d also note that in a time and age where music’s value is constantly attacked by mediocrity, it’s very important for bands ad artists to release good work consecutively. Grand Magus is one of those bands that won’t let their fans down, and actually “The Hunt” is a good chance for traditional metal, and classic rock fans that haven’t heard of them to learn all about them.
