Energy, aggression and experimentation are the first impressions of Tauranga rock unit The D-Day Saints. Guitar prominence runs high throughout the recording but none more so on the standout opening track Final Call. Project figurehead Baz Mantis shines on guitar and injects solos aplenty. Mantis takes credit for writing the music and playing most of the instruments as well as arranging, recording and producing, plus mixing and mastering at Electric Gypsy studio. That leaves lyrics and singing, with the 10 tracks featuring a revolving cast of contributors that gives this record great diversity, while retaining a songwriting cohesion. While there is a metal undercurrent, tracks such as Undone with its Portishead vibe and the freak electro jazz delivery of And The Electric Dragon Rises keep you guessing. Kingsley Smith puts a majestic touch of keyboards and vocals to mid-way track Chill Pill, which is the album’s anthem. In addition to his high level guitar acrobatics, Baz Mantis has done well crafting the production of these songs – along with a fine job of creation and collaborating. The D-Day Saints guarantee a fresh listen for the open minded metal/alt rock listener.