I'm naturally more excited by Portrait's contributions than RAM's, although I can't deride the latter for their offerings. RAM's original cut, "Savage Machine," is a metallic Priest-esque rocker with a thundering chorus and driving riffs-nothing beyond the imagination. But RAM's cover of Portrait's "Welcome to my Funeral" is downright awesome. The Mercyful Fate-stamped riffs under the enormous drum presence make it a winner, while the biggest surprise is Oscar Carlquist venturing beyond his Halford-like vocals for huge falsettos � la King Diamond; one of the split's finest moments. Their cover of "Creatures of the Night" (KISS, of course) will have some heads banging; it fits well within RAM's style and methodology.

Portrait's side of the split ruffles up the sound quality a bit, giving way for an underdone mix and power. They aren't taking any prisoners on "Martial Lead," a fast-tempo lashing big on the screams and hammering riffs. Hearing Portrait wear RAM's skin on "Blessed to be Cursed" is an interesting take for the group, applying the bulldozing Priest-styled rhythms and riffs to a catchy chorus and pounding fury. Portrait's cover of Exciter's "Aggressor" is the highlight of the whole split, however; it is a rampage of excellence. Huge, frenzied riffs layered over neck-snapping drum rhythms and guitar solos so metal you'll be pissing rust for the next three weeks. Virtuous enough to make those old-school Canucks shed a tear of joy.