After reviewing a three song demo by the band I finally get to hear the full debut album from Norway’s Winterstrain.

Shy’s Tony Mills adds his backing vocals to the album and is a driving force behind getting the band known.

Overall the music mixes epic keyboard prog of say Enchant and Power Quest in ballad mode with more melodic rock bands like Magnum and even Steve Hogarth fronted Marillion.

The epic ‘Sail’ is a joyous mix of keys, clean cut guitar riffs and strong vocals, whilst ‘Leon’ gives Enchant a run for their money! ‘A Battle’ again sees plenty of keys in the mix but no-one instrument dominates rather they fit neatly together to create wonderful soundscapes.

Vocalist Geir Helge Fredheim is a true find as he posses a very powerful and melodic voice perfectly suited to the band’s musical style.

For a debut this is very strong indeed and like Power Quest, Enchant et al can be appreciated and enjoyed by fans outside the usual prog metal circles.

****

Review by Jason Ritchie

***** Out of this world | **** Pretty damn fine |
*** OK, approach with caution unless you are a fan |
** Instant bargain bin fodder | * Ugly. Just ugly