In an era when trad metal seems to suddenly be back in vogue again, Blaze (mostly known for his contradictory adventures in Iron Maiden) is continuing to push further the limitations of the original genre. ‘Promise And Terror’ much like its predecessor ‘The Man Who Would Not Die’ is not chock full of chantalong choruses. Once more Blaze has executed an album that manifests all things dark and melancholic. It’s also seems the perfect creative atmosphere for the band nowadays. Even if there are some leftovers from the then Wolfsbane fans who prefer the Van Halenesque drunken fun of Blaze’s past days, they might be disappointed. It’s all metal here sung in lower scale and delivered with passion and might. There are many things that have been thrown into blender here, but songs like ‘Surrounded By Sadness’ and ‘Time To Dare’ are clearly some of the most honest things Blaze has done to date. He’s always been on top of their game when the pace is varied, without losing the sense of heaviness. ‘Promise And Terror’ represents the finest aspects of Bayley’s songwriting. Even though you will be more that satisfied with this new CD, it’s far from flawless. Some will find it a bit monotonous and repetitive at moments. There’s also a solid depressive mood all over the record which helps to get the impression that some songs are very similar to others. Sometimes the balance between old school and contemporary perspective breaks and leaves you helpless, searching for an answer. Part of it is because of the Blaze’s voice. It can be rich and low, but it also can be very monotonous. Overall you won’t regret buying this new album. If some still had Blaze down as an Iron Maiden clone, ‘Promise And Terror’ will sure make these notions look pretty foolish.