To the album, "Behind Enemy Lines" reportedly features guest vocals from Napalm Death's Barney Greenway, though I'm hard-pressed to actually hear his voice. Maybe it's the processed call-and-answer vocal bit? Whatever the case, BFP have recently toured with the mighty ND so there must be some mutual admiration. Moving forward a bit, the unmistakable bellowing of Gorefest's Jan-Chris de Koeijer is on display during the catchy "Bury Me Fighting," which also has a chorus destined for audience sing-along participation in the live setting. The slow tempo opening (and closing) to "Grey Affair" is memorable and serves to pace the album a bit. That it is followed by the similarly slow tempo instrumental (!) "The War is On" seems curious, though this song works well to display some of the band's musical ability and groove.

Elsewhere "Scorched Earth" sounds like Kerry King might have loaned the boys a solo, though the cyclic riffing is simply brutal in its repetition. Turns out it was a guest shot from Hatesphere's Peter "Pepe" Lyse Hansen. Sick of It All's Lou Koller provides additional vocals on "Doomsday Clock" though he doesn't add much to the track since his voice is not as heavy as that of lead throat Ché Snelting. Throughout the record gang-shouted backing vocals from similar sounding headbangers Barcode appear. This album could be neatly filed between labelmate Cataract's latest offering as well as that from Hatebreed. 2006 has been a great year for Metal thus far. Born From Pain has at least been a small part thereof with this very enjoyable record. Tue Madsen's production kills.

Note: I've read rumors about an 'alternative version' of "Behind Enemy Lines" featuring Greenway's pipes suggesting the 'regular' version may not have the Napalm Death mainman on it after all. Huh? For what it is worth, "Eyes of the World" sounds like it has a guest vocalist. Will the truth ever be revealed?

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 43.39