Disillusion’s first full-length release is a surprising mixture of thrash and progressive-metal, with a bit of classical and folk influences thrown in as well. In a way, this album can be held as a darker and more intense version of Wuthering Heights’ Far From the Madding Crowd – and that’s nothing to underestimate.

Taking the aggressiveness of Pantera and Sepultura, expressed mostly via violent rhythm, guitar leads and growls, wrapping it with beautiful, suitable soundscapes and more relaxed – at times even acoustic – passages, Disillusion has managed to create an album worth of challenging, uncompromising movements that link into one mighty journey.

There are enough memorable hooks to keep the listener linked at first listens, but there are tons of details to keep him fascinated every time. The amount of details is exceptional – made possible by the inclusion of some guest musicians that supply piano and string contributions, among others, but even more so by the thrilling work of the three band members themselves. The lyrics behave the same – capturing yet mysterious, and their presentation is raw and powerful.

With all these influences and details one can assume that it would all sound a bit forced – but no. The flow is terrific and everything is orchestrated without a bit of constraint; and above it all, the whole album never gets predictable and contains unexpected surprises.

All in all, a great album that stands as one of the best I’ve heard so far this year. Quoting from the opening track: "There’s a road that I must travel" – this album is certainly one road you must! (9.5/10)