Reviewed by Ian Webber

As one of the pioneer Christian metal/hard rock acts, Bride have been around for over 20 years and have often been criticised for significant changes in the style of their music. This remastered reissue of their debut album from 1986 makes up the first of three recordings that Retroactive Records have lovingly re-packaged. Even from this early recording it was obvious that Bride were a band who would not stick to a simple formula. This 10 track offering is full of invention and surprises. The overall quality of the mix is understandably a little rough around the edges, but Dale Thompson's vocals soar over a full range and mix of sounds. Violins, keys, and lead tradeoffs veer from the orchestral to speed metal. Even a vocoder is used at times to provide variety above a relentless driving bass. With all this invention most of the tracks work, even the quirky "Thunder In The City". The best two cuts "No Matter The Price" and the title track feature Dale with a maniacal scream and full on metal accompaniment. For anyone interested in the early days of '80s metal and who missed this first time round, it is certainly worth a purchase. Liner notes by Troy Thompson also make interesting reading.

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