With “Immortal Soul”, the classic 70’s-80’s American rock/metal band, Riot has returned in grand fashion. Some may know the name Riot from such classic songs as ‘Swords and Tequila”, “Fire Down Under”, and “Rock City”. The uninformed may confuse them with their less talented peers Quiet Riot. But true fans of power metal from the late 80’s and early 90’s are familiar with two of the greatest albums that helped defined the genre. “Immortal Soul” features Tony Moore, Mark Reale, Don Van Stavern and Bobby Jarzombek – the line-up responsible for the band's hugely acclaimed 'Thundersteel' (1988) and 'The Privilege Of Power' (1990) albums – re-united once more, together with Mike Flyntz (live guitarist used on the Thundersteel tour).

From beginning to end, “Immortal Soul” is a true return to metal form. The opening track, “Riot” starts things off with a metallic bang! When lead vocalist, Tony Moore, who sounds like he hasn’t missed a step in 20 years, sings the chorus “What’s it going to take to make you Riot?!!” I can picture a live audience going apeshit! Bobby Jarzombek’s rapid-fire drums kick off “Still Your Man”, which is an ode to the song “Johnny’s Back” off of Thundersteel.

The album as a whole has more in common with “Thundersteel” than “Privilege” which was a tad more experimental. You won’t find a horn section anywhere on here, just kick ass speedy power metal like the amazingly melodic power of “Wings for Angels”. Other standouts include the kick ass title track, “Whiskey Man”, which harkens back to earlier Riot material, and…well… Hell, every track here is a winner! In my opinion, “Immortal Soul” and Riot wins “Metal Comeback of 2011” hands down!

Rating: 9.0