For Coheed and Cambria, there could not be any more fitting track to open this album than with this tune -- "Keeping the Blade." Utilizing the advantages being signed to a major label such as Columbia Records gives, the band demonstrate their desire to play around with new instruments and synthesizers in order to expand their sound and style. Even on this opener, one can see the fruits of their labors.

The tune is a combination of the theme that was first head on "Second Stage Turbine Blade" from the album of the same name, and "The Ring in Return" off the previous record. In fact, it's noteworthy that the song takes its name from those two records -- "Keeping the Blade." As mentioned before, these tunes are considered to represent the passage of time within the story of Coheed and Cambria. With a new record and a new chapter of the story being told, it's crucial this song is here.

Of equally important notice is just why the song uses both the themes from the earlier records. Well, as far as the concept goes, this is part four. Or, actually, volume one of part four. The Amory Wars is a projected four part series. The Second Stage Turbine Blade makes up the second part, while In Keeping Secrets of Silent Earth: 3 is the third (in fact, notice how the titles hint to their placement in story). With the fourth and final chapter of the story about to begin, the use of the two themes to create "Keeping the Blade" gives the listener the idea that the journey is coming to an end. However, there are still two full albums to review, so it's still a long journey ahead.

This song is my favorite of all of Coheed's opening tunes. In just the first few seconds alone, we get the idea that this album is going to be rather heavy and dark. The use of string instruments arranged by Karl Berger offers a new dynamic to the theme. While the first half is played on keyboard by drummer Josh Eppard (who also performed said theme on SSTB), the rest of the theme carries on through use of violins, viola, and cello. Altogether, it's a more somber and melancholic rendition than ever before, perfectly foreshadowing the rest of the album.

It's the beginning of the end.