Harlan

Composed by Lawless after the events of September 11th, and perhaps it is this hastiness in the composition that fails to give the album that sense of melancholy, as Unholy Terror did. It must be said, however, that tracks like Wicked Heart, Black Bone Torso, and the moving Halloweed Ground (even better in its acoustic version) work more than well. 3.5

Probably the best work of the group from Unholy Terror. The Christian themes that Lawless wanted to focus on around the album do not clash; on the contrary, they help the listener immerse themselves more in the listening experience of the album. The recycling of the riff from Wild Child is felt as always, and Scream is proof of that, but the remaining tracks show that this is one of the best line-ups W.A.S.P. have had in years. Last Runaway and Shotgun bring back the energy that has always characterized the American group, and the poignant Fallen Under and the title track are simply to be listened to for Doug Blair's mastery on guitar, while Slaves Of The New World Order showcases a truly inspired Lawless both in lyrics and vocal performance. Six years of silence were needed, but it was definitely worth it.

A spectacular debut! 9/10