Naturally with any side-project from a well known band or band member, particularly so with such a popular and widely recognised band as Children of Bodom, there will be people interested in hearing it simply because it is linked to the band they adore. Naturally then question with Janne Warman's keyboard-heavy project Warmen is "Is this any good on its own or is it just for the Bodomites?" Luckily in the case of "Accept The Fact", Warmen's most recent output, there is enough appeal for more than the "Hatecrew".

One of the most interesting aspects of this album is the variety of different very proficient vocalists including Timo Kotipelto (Stratovarius), Marko Vaara (Tunnel Vision), Jonna kosonen (ex-Nylon Beat) and a fan pleasing appearance on the Michael Jack son cover song "Somebody's watching me" by Alexi Laiho (Children Of Bodom). The standout vocalist is definitely however the powerful yet melodic Jonna Kosonen on "They All Blame Me" which is definitely an album highlight. This variety whilst enjoyable for the listener can sometimes reinforce the impression

Naturally as a keyboard based album this is not going to be everyone's cup of tea and anyone who finds any sort of prog-based metal "fiddly" or over the top will of course not like "Accept the Fact", an album full of complex neo-classical keyboard solo's and Patches that sound like some sort of satanic super Nintendo mixed with some quite excellent guitar work provided by Antti Warman and Sami Virtanen. The two instrumental tracks on which the keyboards most prominently feature, opener and title track "Accept The Fact" and the pleasingly speedy "Roppongi Rumble" make up together some of the best moments on this album.

Every Warmen release however is more of a project than an album in the traditional sense and it shows on this release. Whilst with most releases from other bands there is a distinctive sound, mood or perhaps even storyline they are trying to capture the keyword with this album is variety. It's truly hard to put a judgement on this and it really depends what you're looking for; If you want to hear some excellent keyboard music and a good showcase of Warman's abilities you will enjoy this record. If you want to hear a solid, focused album then this will probably not work for you. However I fall firmly into the first camp and this has been one of the most enjoyable releases I have heard in quite some time - both for its virtuoso qualities and because every track manages to fit in quality song writing styles.

Overall this is for me a very enjoyable album, which deserves to be recognised for its own merits beyond being linked to Children of Bodom. Anyone with an interest in the proggier or keyboard based side of metal would do well to look past the obvious comparisons and links and give this album a listening to.

Standout Tracks:  Accept The Fact, They All Blame Me, Roppongi Rumble.

Overall Score:   8 /10