When the path of two legendary musicians (Randy Piper and Chris Laney) from two different countries collaborate you would figure one or the other would be head strong and take over the lead role in ANIMAL, but to the contrary these boys molded a great relationship and it got stronger as the months rolled on.

Piper formerly of WASP and Laney of ZAN CLAN released their first venture with "Violent New Breed" back in 2006 and have gained a solid following throughout the universe and the wait for new material is over!

The band recently signed to Locomotive Records and the world stage is set for Virus. Lead vocalists Rich Lewis was compared to Blackie LawlessonANIMAL's last CD but Lewis shows a lot more diversity this time around and gives us his balls to the wall approach as there's no limits with range. The opening tune "Cardiac Arrest" is strong and has the heart pounding drive of JUDAS PRIEST musically but the writing ability by ANIMAL is far beyond greatness. Laney and Piper are amazing with the lyrics and those Swedes (Laney) know how hit the home run ball with the choruses.

One of the standout tracks is "Don't Wanna Die", it not only has a killer riff, catchy chorus and even the guitar solo screams attention it has the massive potential to skyrocket to the top. Let me tell you, this is just one of the songs that Rich Lewis impresses me on, Blackie who?

"Crying Eagle" starts off like a sentimental ballad with keyboards and soaring eagle sounds, and then that friggin J. Koleberg did a drum roll in my ear and combustion was ignited. "Crying Eagle" has melodic parts and a feel of patriotism as elevation increases.

"Judgement Day" starts off like a carousel at the circus and the lyrics have you thinking spiritually (I'm watching you, I see everything you do, Heaven or Hell) "Piper goes off the hook on this one.

"Who's Next" is another great track that has the elements of the Ozzy with darkness and the heavy down tuning, even the guitar work has the feel of Zakk Wylde.

This is such a phenomenal tune that sends chills down my spine "Zombie,” amazing. This is the heart breaking truths about WAR a criminal act, this track blows my mind how well done and thought went into this one. This is a highlight track.

"Shoot To Kill" another anthem song, melodic hard edged, great guitar pulling all the musicians together to make an impression. Ending is classic in your face, pushing the limits of Rock, "L.U.S.T.", great chorus, great harmonies and the whammy bar is slamming. Guitars are blazing!!!

What a CD, lyrically and musically ANIMAL has the magnetism to destroy. This one I expect to see on many best of 2008 CD's of the year. I know it will be on ours. Make sure to pre-order this one!