Okay, so I just rediscovered VAST's 'Visual Audio Sensory Theater' after years, and holy cow—it still hits like a freight train. This album is like if Nine Inch Nails and Gregorian monks had a love child, but with way more soul.

First off, 'Touched'? That opening riff alone is worth the price of admission. It’s industrial but not in a clangy, headache-inducing way—more like a velvet hammer. And those chants? *Chef’s kiss*. I played it for my metalhead friend AND my classical-music-snob cousin, and both were nodding along by the second chorus.

The production is insane for 1998. 'Flames' with its acoustic guitar + violin combo feels like staring into a campfire at 3 AM, while 'Temptation' slaps you with this primal, almost tribal energy. And don’t get me started on 'I’m Dying'—those layered vocals over the bassline? Pure ear candy.

Fun story: I first heard VAST in a surf documentary (random, right?). One track hooked me so hard I hunted down the CD like it was the Holy Grail. Still wish they’d press it on vinyl though—imagine those lows on a proper turntable.

Bottom line: If your music taste ranges from 'headbanging' to 'contemplating life while staring at rain,' this album bridges the gap. It’s aged like fine wine, and Jon Crosby remains criminally underrated. 10/10 would blast again (and annoy my neighbors).