Hopefully with this solo album and positive reviews from (American) journalists Gus will get some much needed respect and larger fan base from North America. Reason being, unfortunately, American Hard Rock and Heavy Metal listeners (as far as the masses), only support what is retro, or is made popular by commercial radio, TV like That Metal Show, summer festivals (the few we have), and package tours. Plus, as Ozzy Osbourne’s current guitarist, Gus continues to be a talent second to Zakk Wylde because this country is so far up Zakk’s ass they won’t give Gus, or his band Firewind, a chance to be successful. If you can’t tell already, I’m tired of it!

With the single/video ‘My Will Be Done’, featuring the excellent gritty vocals of Mats Leven (Yngwie, Therion, Candlemass), as with ‘Blame It On Me’, Gus instantly is establishing this is as a solo album. Each of the twelve tracks features guest appearance by the likes of Billy Sheehan on the fast and heavy instrumental ‘Terrified’ (Megadeth’s Dave Ellefson on ‘Vengeance’), ‘Summer Days’ featuring Jeff Scott Soto is a great AOR rocker that would fit on his own solo album, to even Michael Star from Steel Panther on rocker ‘Redemption’. Heck, even the melancholy ‘Dreamkeeper’ would fit well on an Evergrey, or solo album for Tom Englund. Very nice solo too with a lot of feel.

The most unexpected songs are the title track how its influenced by the American hard rock sound, a collaboration with the band Devour The Day for the melody and lyrics. ‘Long Way Down’, featuring Alexia Rodriguez from Eyes Set To Kill, Gus arranged the verses around clean guitars with a harder chorus that is contemporary and perfect for American rock radio and the sounds appealing to the younger generation. Same with Just Can't Let Go’ featuring Jacob Bunton from Adler on vocals. Pleasant surprises that demonstrates Gus’ abilities as a versatile composer. None of the above have the components of his band Firewind. Still, Gus does find a way to write a solo for these tunes, and throughout the entire album, that are fitting to the melody.

Great album that shows Gus’ potential and that he can play with the big boys when it comes to writing. Give this guy a chance, finally!