The differences between early-day Fates Warning and the band of the new millennium are staggering. First and foremost is the sound and style. They would eventually evolve into one of the leading prog bands, but here they are steeped heavily into the sounds of Iron Maiden. Vocalist John Arch tries (very convincingly, I might add) to sound like Bruce Dickinson -- his voice inflections, tendencies, the whole works. This is a good release throughout, but considering the style they were shooting for it’s a bit unoriginal. Guitarist Jim Matheos is the only original member still with the band, as of 2005.
A number of good tracks can be found on this debut, including "The Calling," "Kiss of Death," "Misfit," "Damnation," and the title track. The band will continue in the Maiden vein for a few releases before shifting styles towards the late-80s.

TRACK LIST: Buried Alive/The Calling/Kiss of Death/Night on Brocken/S.E.K./Misfit/Shadowfax/Damnation/Soldier Boy