They certainly aren’t writing amazing pieces of epic proportions like “Fallen Angel” or producing songs that are so catchy even dogs go bananas, but who cares? This is another effort from one of the most consistent and unchanged bands around, and Mystic Prophecy, led by RD Liapakis, continues right where it left off. The opening title track has a mid-tempo grind that shuffles between heavy riffs and Liapakis' melodic yet harsh vocals with the addictive chorus and ripping guitar solos still running strong. Not much new here on the musical end compared to the band’s previous efforts, but I’m not complaining. Liapakis’ voice has aged very well, and the group once again continues to morph into something heavier through thrash-inspired assaults like "Reckoning Day" or the growling vocals on "Die Now." These guys willingly descend deeper into Satan's hole with each and every release, a ritual they certainly have perfected.

"Ravenlord" isn't as demonic as "Satanic Curses" and not quite the oasis of fresh songwriting compared to "Regressus," but let's not forget the only fact that matters: it's Mystic Prophecy, and they don't give a damn. Mystic Prophecy is a cluster of metallic clichés, and they're among a handful of acts that never really deviate from a peculiar sound but can still produce sensational material. The album's finest quality is that it doesn't screw around or playfully tease the listener with useless samples or other mundane crap. Instead, Mystic Prophecy strikes like the tail of a stingray. They aren't writing deeply motivating or intellectual material like that on "Vengeance" anymore, but Mystic Prophecy's equation works diligently and continues to produce very enjoyable albums, just like this one.