Format: CD Condition: New Year of Release: 2007 Cat. No.: 677243 Label: Mascot Music
***** Progressive, superior... Splendid! By James J. Gerbino (Pensacola, FL USA)
This newest release from the progressive metal powerhouse Artension is amazing. The sound is amazing... crisp and clear, certainly one of the best produced discs from Shrapnel Records. The style is amazing... highly musical yet still in the context of songs, not just instrumental romps. The heart of the band is clearly Ukranian keyboard wizard Vitalij Kuprij, also known for his stellar solo offering High Definition and his work on Steve Howe's Ascend. Classical influences are obvious but in the heavy vein of early Malmsteen.
John West's vocals are clear and strong, very much like Jeff Scott Soto with Malmsteen's Rising Force. The guitar work is smooth, articulate and in perfect tandem with the keyboard solos and runs that abound.
If you want to enter the world of progressive metal this is an excellent starting point. I would compare this to Symphony X in quality and originality... fresh, powerful with a sense of majesty.
TRACK LISTING:
1 Machine 2 The Way 3 Madness Calling 4 Mother Earth 5 Wings Of War 6 Evolution In Reverse 7 Time Goes Slowly By 8 The Loser Never Wins 9 I See Through Your Disguise
