Sidestepping traditional melodic death metal's more typical hallmarks, and making their session keyboard player earn every penny of his pay cheque, means that _In the Wake of Collisions_ almost immediately appears to have more in common with _IX Equilibrium_ than it does with _The Jester Race_. "Death Is Imminent" makes quick work of setting the new precedent, as it propels proceedings forward at a breakneck pace. This new Arcane Order material is drenched in thick swathes of atmosphere, and offers a master-class in the balancing act of crisp melody, and even-handed stabs at progression and brutality.

On "Eruptions of Red", there's a subtle tip of the hat to Primordial's recent output, and just when you think that you've heard all that mainman Flemming C and cohorts have to offer, the record's stunning closing track sets you straight with its pounding, irresistibly infectious finale. If that's not enough to get you salivating, then you've stumbled into the wrong cyberspace back-alley, my friend.