How does he do it? James “The Mexican Dio” Rivera seems to get better with age, returning to his fascination with Dracula/vampires that dates back to the '84 debut. “Awaken In Darkness” opens the Texas ragers' ninth studio effort: initially instrumental, then eerie mid-tempo before taking off in the latter half of its 6:47 length. The lyrics name check “Baptized In Blood”, off Nosferatu. In the last decade, Rivera has added a Dani Filth inspired black metal shriek (for better or worse) and it's on display throughout these eleven offerings. “Blood Lust” quickly locks into the hallmark Helstar groove, but also features plenty of guitar and bass workouts. “To Dust You Will Become” plays things pretty straight, although the veiled (pun intended) Middle Eastern rhythm is seductively infectious. 

“From The Pulpit To The Pit” (been listening to Ghost lately Mr. Rivera?) rides a modern staccato riff, periodically punctuated by a vicious guitar break, courtesy of the other longtime Star, Larry Barragan. Definitely an old ‘80s feel to music in “To Their Death Beds They Fell”. Speaking of which, there's a little ride cymbal and Slayer in the intro to slow boiling “Abolish The Sun”. Just after the half way point, “Malediction” is a nearly four minute instrumental, followed by “Repent In Fire”. At one point, the disc was reported to be entitled after “Black Cathedral”. One of the strongest tracks, it's a traditional metal construct beginning with double tracked guitars: one acoustic, one electric. Guess which one wins? The short (2:31) disc closing “Dreamless Sleep” starts with a movie voiceover and violin, that's eventually joined by acoustic guitar and high pitched vocals. Winner!