Imagine, if you will, a toned down Type O Negative or a darker, blacker Led Zeppelin, with distinctively American vocalist instead of the late Peter Steele’s deep basso singing. There is a certain morbid tone to the album as well, even if it has a sense of humour then Type O, one that’s less sarcastic but no less vicious. And it’s no wonder to see why, as the band was started by Type O Negative’s drummer Sal Abruscato, and it seems like Evil Petey’s way of thinking has rubbed off onto Sal.

Despairing and despising is the general nature of this beast, but like a beast there is a certain amount of aggression flowing that comes off as anger rather then angst. It’s destructive and will lash out at anyone, and will turn on itself if it can’t find a proper victim.

“Heroin Train” drones on about drug abuse, but I’m not sure if the musicians have really experienced the junkie lifestyle. “Bad Dream” is a very interesting ambient track with wailing noises in the background that shows how intelligent Hard Rock can be once you strip out the conventional singer. Or any singer for that matter. “Pill Head” becomes much more poetic and verbose while keeping its sentences tight. “Meet the Wolf” is the obvious Red Riding Hood song about seduction. “Die Alone” shuffles along sighing to itself with all the haste of a funeral march. The slow pace does help add a morose and mournful touch. In my opinion, it’s the best track of the album.

The talent and effort is there alright, as the band hits all the targets it sets for itself. But at the same time they fall down on areas like innovation and could flaunt its pedantic side somewhat more. Nonetheless, the release is very enjoyable and will appeal to a large number of music fans.