Anthem is guitarist James Byrd's 2002 follow up to "Flying Beyond The 9", expanding and developing on the symphonic metal advanced by that album. The nine tracks on the CD are again extremely classical in nature, but also feature elements of progressive metal (especially in Michael Flatters vocal approach). Byrd lays down some amazing, fast-yet-melodic solos that have been his trademark since his work with Fifth Angel. Keyboardist/drummer/bassist Brian Hutchinson also returns on this CD, but that's not all - he also engineered, mixed and mastered as well. Fans of Yngwie Malmsteen and Uli Jon Roth will be able to relate to the music on Anthem right away - even though Byrd skillfully manages to carve out his own niche in the symphonic metal arena.