One of the finest releases of 1998 was the "Solum Mente Infirmis" album from the Austrian band Stigmata. Also their show at the Baroeg in Rotterdam-NL that year (April 23rd with Virgin Steele and Riot) was very impressive. Especially the emotional vocals from Ritchie Krenmaier and the superb guitars played by Günter Maier made this band sound different than the rest. Several albums later and after changing their name into Stygma IV, here they are once again with another real quality powermetal album. Luckily the line-up remained the same (completed by Alex Hilzensauer-bass and Herb Greisberger-drums) and the guys are still able to write some very exciting music.

Just listen to the fantastic 16:07 minutes "Sleep" and you`ll find out yourself. The guitars and vocals are the most striking facts on this record, just like with their `98 release. Songs like the last track "The Way To Light", the suprising "At The End Of My Daze" or the titletrack all are little masterpieces of sheer musicianship. Great album from a great band. Try and catch them live on stage if you can!