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AGE OF NEMESIS Psychogeist Magna Carta (2005)
Right, thinking hats on, kiddies, for this, latest, release from the Hungarian progressive metal band, formerly known as Nemesis, is a bit of a brain whirler.
Age Of Nemesis are an unashamedely progressive rock band – for although they are heavy, and share some sound space with the likes of Evergrey and Symphony X, they are equally looking to the likes of Rush and Fates Warning. They released several albums in their native Hungary before switching over to English vocals and this is their second English release.
"Psychogeist" begins with a six song concept song cycle which concerns itself with psychological drama, the highlight of which is "Mommy's Crying". Then the final five tracks, including two instrumentals, rounds things off. The eastern tinged "Eye of the Snake" is a highlight here, although you will keep thinking, 'where have I heard that before'? Of the instrumentals, the closing "Awakening Minds" is an excellent coda to an excellent album.
The band are all very competent musicians with the Dream Theater guitar work of Zoltan Fabian particularly noteworthy. They've also managed to keep the music firmly rooted in the song melody, something too many progressive bands forget about, concerning themselves too much with showing off their chops. Age of Nemesis have them, they just know when to use them.
A very good album, indeed.
****
Review by Stuart A.Hamilton
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