In the modern era of "oh so perfect" recordings, we've forgotten the raw charm that is a disc with a little bit of an unfinished or "rough around the edges" production value. Well, this CD has reminded me just how cool that sort of a sound can be. It really adds character and charm if the band is talented - and Marengo's Without Return definitely are.

Overall the group has a classic heavy metal sound, but there is quite a bit of depth to the music that isn't fully conveyed by that description. I hear a lot of elements and shadows of different bands here. We get the raw energy of a Skid Row. Some of the music seriously reminds me of Rush's debut disc. You might also pick up traces of Motley Crue (the early stuff) on this, too. They even include a ballad. While that track has a lush arrangement, it never moves into the realm of sappy.

Whatever the particular combination you hear on this, the end result is the same. If you miss the old days of metal and hard rock, this band is definitely for you. I'm tempted to drop this one down to four beets instead of five. The only reason I'd do that, though, is that the production quality might put some listener's off. The truth is, it adds to the experience. So, here we have another perfect album in terms of beets. I suppose, since this is an EP, it might lose some points for the short duration (less than half an hour) of the disc. However, the music here is strong enough that it really doesn't detract. It just leaves you wanting more.