The 1999 Timeless Crime EP from Italian progressive power metal masters Labyrinth is an interesting collection of material. The stop-gap EP features a mix of new material, rerecordings, alternate versions and a surprise cover song. Here's what you get:
1. Save Me - This new studio song was later used on 2000's Sons of Thunder, but in a rearranged form. I prefer the original version.
2. Out of Memory - This song was originally included on the band's 1995 demo Midnight Resistance, which I've not yet heard. It's a solid song, but I am curious as to what it sounded like with Fabio Leone on vocals.
3. In the Shade - This song was originally included on the band's debut album No Limits. The original is good, but this version is worlds better, thanks in large part to Roberto Tiranti's vocals.
4. Falling Rain - This is an acoustic version of the Return to Heaven Denied song. It's very tranquil and very pretty, and is enough to fool you into thinking the album is over when...
5. DIE FOR MY SINS!!! - This hidden track is a cover of the Sanctuary classic, and is reason enough for any serious metal fan to buy this EP. Domine's vocalist makes a guest appearance, and does justice to Warrell Dane's screaming vocal style. Pure thrashing adrenaline. My only complaint is that it is tacked on to "Falling Rain" instead of included as a separate track. Sometimes I just want to hear this song by itself. Oh well.
If you're not already a fan of Labyrinth, I'd recommend picking up their 1998 album Return to Heaven Denied and then grabbing this EP and Sons of Thunder. Their later albums are good as well, but the late 90's stuff is really essential. If you're already a Labyrinth fan and haven't picked up Timeless Crime, what are you waiting for?