The band decided not to replace Albert at that time, and Thorpe

The band decided not to replace Albert at that time, and Thorpe assumed the role of vocalist for the band’s next album: Something Burning . This album was released in 1996 on the Massacre Records label. The song “Perpetual”, included on the album, was the last track written with Albert. The resulting reviews of the new release were favorable, and VR subsequently undertook a European tour with Accept to support it. Cyberchrist , their next studio album, was recorded and released in 1998 with newcomer Brian O’Connor on vocals. The band was invited by Blind Guardian to join them for 30 tour dates on their highly successful “Nightfall in Middle-Earth” European tour. The band then took some time off from touring and recording primarily to recruit new personnel. They recruited a new bass player, Cornbread, who replaced Tommy Sisco, and Ira Black (ex Heathen —later with Lizzy Borden ) filled the spot left by departing guitarist Smyth. Session players Atma Anur, Dan Lawson and Will Carroll (later with Death Angel ) briefly sat in for drummer Larry Howe—who at the time wanted to take some time off from touring and recording. The new lineup recorded and released Sadistic Symphony with vocalist Morgan Thorn in 2001, but O’Connor re-joined the band for live dates in the US and Europe in support of the new album. These three albums had a more groove -oriented sound.