Interesting Progressive Metal from multi instrumentalist Arjen Lucassen (Star One, Ayreon etc), featuring vocalist Jasper Steverlinck (Arid), drummer Chris Maitland (Porcupine Tree) and guitarst Lori Linstruth (Stream Of Pasion).

The opening track (the 11 minutes epic 'Twisted Coil') at times sounds a little electronic and programmed, with industrial hints, but it’s also complex, searing, grandiose, it’s everything a prog metal fan would like. The strings add an extra dimension, but the odd line of radio commentary is a little annoying. The range is dark and heavy to atmospheric and at times melancholic.

The tracks are long, varied, and change pace well. The rhythms are good, and sometimes as complex as the music and lyrics. The odd nod at Rush is good too.

The shortest track is still over 6 minutes, it’s not like you can just put one track on and pick out a simple melody.

The harsh electronic edges stop the music flowing quite as well as it could do, but otherwise it is a good and solid prog metal album.

***

Review by Joe Geesin

www.joegeesin.com