Italian Burning Black’s approach to heavy metal is decidedly not modern and apart from the better production, ‘Prisoners of Steel’ could have been from 1988 rather than 2008. It’s hard to put a finger on anything: by the sound of it, they’re skilled musicians, know the rules of the genre, have a singer with a decent voice.

Although there are a couple of excellent tracks, most notably Fight to Dream and the title track, the complete lack of originality gets to me in the end when listening to the album – as well as the at times slightly muddy guitar sound.

The band is apparently recording their second album – could be an idea for fans of old skool heavy metal to be on the lookout for that one.

The cover is probably the most interesting thing about the album – what the h*** is that all about?! A naked chick with a steel helmet and the equally naked chap behind her. Could be an interesting story…