Original Dream Theater vocalist Charlie Dominici's trilogy of albums were criminally overlooked, but one unifying factor was the tremendous guitar of Brian Maillard and his brother Yan on drums. Now we have the latest incarnation of the Maillard's project started back in 2004. Again it will appeal to lovers of progressive/power metal, with the guitars on 11.

With vocalist Samuel Pintus on board, this is going to appeal also to fans of Symphony X, even early Dream Theater.

Opener 'Freedom From Pain' has some wonderful keyboards (courtesy of Americo Rigoldi) and guitar interplay whilst 'Millions Of People' is a standout, building to a frenzied guitar finale. The band are able to come up with a cracking power ballad too: 'From Hell to Paradise' and 'Memories'. But it's 'Sacrifice For One Life' that provides the real highlight with an infectious guitar riff and attractive keyboard harmonies and interplay.

The 2-CD edition includes instrumental mixes for those who want to focus on the excellent musicianship deployed here.

****

Review by David Randall