Voyager released a superb progressive metal debut album 'V' just over two years ago and now they return with their second album. In the interim the band ahs been reduced to the core of Daniel Estrin and Mark De Vattimo and they have now been joined by three new members. Sound wise they have dropped some of their more metal touches and instead gone for bigger melodies and some very tasty keyboards! In vocalist Daniel Estrin they have someone who can growl, then switch to a strong metal vocal before switching effortlessly into a very rich, melodic tone.

Excellent sound and production yet again throughout the album with 'Cross The Line' being the most immediate song on here - hook filled chorus, neat metal guitar riffs coupled with swathes of keyboards.

The main difference to their debut is that 'Univers' takes a little while longer to click with the listener, certainly songs such as 'Higher Existence' (complete with accordion intro) or 'Everwaiting' need your full attention and repeated hearings. Technically the band hit all the right spots and the three new members seem to fit seamlessly into the band's overall sound.

Don't let this album pass you by if you enjoy melodic/progressive metal with a firm emphasis on melody. Whilst you are at grab their debut album as well, you won't be disappointed.

****

Review by Jason Ritchie