Maximum Effect

Opener Bones Of Elvis finds the erstwhile Thunder Rider in proto-rap anthem territory, if such a thing can be imagined. Virgin Love is thrashy punk to the max. Two Worlds exists on a world of it's own. In The Mood gives Nik a chance to ponce about in a comedy fashion. Sid's Song is at once sad, beautiful and rocking. Metal is an almighty discordant racket, and is brilliant. What really shines through is the songwriting quality of Judge Trev Thoms and Dead Fred Reeves. More than any other ICU album, this one showcases a BAND rather than cashing in on members' pasts... this is not to denigrate Nik, far from it, but ICU as an equal opportunities employer clearly worked.