Stabbing Westward have always been an enigma--it's hard to pigeon-hole these guys in any particular genre. They're not quite industrial, nor would I classify them as metal, yet they definitely know how to rock! And while I wouldn't say their latest is their greatest, it's a good strong stab in that direction.

They've softened their edge a bit on this one, but it's undeniably a very well-put-together outing. "So Far Away" stands out as the best track on the album, but along with other gems like "Happy" and "Breathe You In," it's amazing to me that they're not getting any more radio play than they are. Particularly when you consider that the type of music they have always championed, is now more popular than ever. By all rights they should be enjoying the same popularity as the new metal bands that are carrying the day. Though this isn't the visceral masterpiece that Wither, Blister, Burn and Peel was, it should certainly please their old fans, and should also be winning them a new generation of followers. This is another scathing, guitar-driven, synthesized display of their mystifying grace. So if you're like many of the areas devotees to Vegas' 107.5 take a stab at this one, you won't be disappointed.