Sinner's brand of metal is the kind of industrial Neanderthal fun that's made bands like Manowar famous. In fact, you could probably call Sinner "Manowar-lite." It's the sort of loincloth-and-swords metal that's responsible for birthing both the best of metal (Iron Maiden) and some of its more abhorrent offspring (DragonForce).

Sinner first cut their teeth, going at this power metal romp, during the early '80s, and while age has definitely hampered their lust for epic battles and bare chests, their pure talent and skill has grown to the point where just showing off is second nature to its members. The guitars stick strictly within the lexicon of chugging metal riffs and, as this brand of metal is prone to do, frequently paraphrases its own past themes. All of which make plodding through it a bit redundant to the non-metal fan.

The lyrics revolve around the romanticized depictions of war, battles and, uh, war. Simple enough. But Crash and Burn's magnetized tightness manages to hold interest as the band bangs out raunchy, catchy numbers. When one looks beyond the mere face value appeal, however, the premise of its sound could bore the life out many people. It's always nice to hear old bands holding their torches high and proud. Still, Crash and Burn, even if it is a solid banger, feels like four guys just waxing nostalgic over 40 minutes. This metal fan will conclude by simply saying: "Good for them."

Kent Alexander writes about music for Metro Times. Send comments to letters@metrotimes.com.