This work should have been titled Van Halen III. It's as if we have gone back in time and picked up where they left off at Van Halen II. This IS the original formula and DNA that drew me to them 20 years ago. My concern all along was the gap that Michael Anthony's absence would make. This worry=FAIL. My apologies to Wolfgang for ever doubting. Not only does Wolf fill the gap, he outplays Anthony. I am quite sure that Sammy and Michael listened to this and said, "Dang, they did it" (they probably didn't say "dang"). BOTTOM LINE: This is a SAFE purchase. Every song is fantastic! Now, listen… you guys GET ALONG! We want another album!
Let me close this review by repeating the words of David Lee Roth as he spoke them in Blood and Fire: "I told you I'd be back. Tell me you missed me. Say it like you mean it!"
What's great about it: The original Van Halen DNA is back, untainted.