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Macaluso, John & Union Radio - The Radio Waves Goodbye
Madsword - Evolution
Magellan - Impending Ascension
Malpractice - Deviation from The Flow
Mara - Poetry And Motion
Marillion - Six of One: Half〜Dozen of the Other
Martone, Dave - When The Aliens Come
Masi, Alex - In The Name of Bach
Masi, Alex - In The Name of Beethoven
Masi, Alex - Late Night At Desert Rimrock
Masi, Alex - Theory of Everything
Mastercastle - Last Desire
Mastercastle - The Phoenix
Mattson - Another Dimention
Mastermind - Insomnia
Mattson - Power Games
Mattson - Tango
Mattson - War
Mattson, Lars Eric - Aurora Borealis
Mattson, Lars Eric - Earthbound
Mattson, Lars Eric - Electric Voodoo
Mattson, Lars Eric - No Surrender + Live
MCM - Ritual Factory
Mechanical Organic - Flat Earth Society
Meisel, Hubi - Cut
Meisel, Hubi - Kailash
Memorized Dreams - Theater of Life
Mercury Rising - Building Rome
Metal Church - Hanging In The Balance
Metal Majesty - This Is Not A Drill
Metheny, Pat Group - The Way Up
Millenium - Hourglass
Mind's Eye - A Gentleman's Hurricane
Mind's Eye - A Work of Art
Mind's Eye - Waiting for the Tide
Mind's Eye - Walking on H20
Miosis - 4 track e.p.
Missa Mercuria - s/t
Missing Tide - Follow The Dreamer
Mister Kite - All In Time
Mister Kite - Box of Fear
Mistheria - Messengers of the Gods
Mitic, Borislav - The Absolute
Moonlight Comedy - The Life Inside
Moon of Steel - Beyond The Edges
Mosher, Scott - Deep Horizons
Mosher, Scott - Inferno
Mosher, Scott - Virtuality
MSG - One Night At Budokan
Mullmuzller - James LaBrie's Mullmuzller 2
Munkes, Rolf - No More Obscurity
Mystelly Hall, The - The Voyager Through The Void
Mythologic - Standing In Stillness

Macaluso, John & Union Radio - The Radio Waves Goodbye
Lion Music
(2007)

John Macaluso has been very known as a drummer working for TNT, Yngwie Malmsteen, Ark, and to name just a few. Besides working those groups, he has already worked with tons of groups and musicians outside of metal world. Even though he has a splendid career, he's one of most unsung drum heroes in my eyes. Each release from Lion Music including his drum works that I encounter impresses me a lot. So far, MCM and Alex Masi's albums are quite awesome to have checked out. Anyway, John Macaluso has finally revealed his very first solo album in 2007 with the helps of his music fellows. His new solo album 'The Radio Waves Goodbye' has lots of exciting instrumental interplays and great vocal-oriented numbers from beginning to the end. Of course, John Macaluso showcases his incredible drum and cymbal works. In addition, this is not solely his solo album. This does not sound like a typical drummer's solo album. His full-length album has a feeling of band efforts and carefully written/composed instrumental works. In particular, the drum-oriented tracks are sounding quite contemporary and synth/keyboards featured tracks sound really progressive metal. It's fantastic for him and his friends working together to push the limits and challenge new musical direction that has not been cultivated by many people. If you are a big fan of Lion Music artists and gruops that play both hard fusion and prog metal with new twists and modern touch, then the new album of John Macaluso & Union Radio is a must have!

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Madsword - Evolution
Underground Symphony/Lucretia Records International
(1996)

Madsword's 1st album, Evolution featuring intense and hard driving prog metal tunes. From Italy, there are lots of quality prog metal bands coming out, such as Mystre De Nortre Dame, Zen, Scenario to name just a few. Among prog metal fans, we tend to consider Italy as a treasure box of prog metal. Madsword it one of popular Italian prog metal bands among die-hard heavy prog metal bands. Throughout this album, I am impressed with a main composer/writer Gianni Guerra's composition skills. Madsword knows when they go intense and slow down a bit. First tune "Tsushima" seems to give their slight ponder thoughts on a futuristic city called Tsushima with energetic ensemble. Second tune, "Evolution", has nice clean guitar and some keyboard sounds in the beginning, then it develps in an intelligent arrangement with harder edge featuring Guerra's nice guitar solo. Third tune, "Through The Sky", starts with glocken-spiral keyboard introduction, and later on they move into melodic and moderately hard instrumental section featuring busy pulsating bass performance by Simon Rosani that I enjoyed a lot during listening to this song. Simon Rosani has really nice bass performance and phrase-making skill in my honest opinion. "Digital Trick" begins with slow and atmospheric feeling, but delving into sensitive realm with melodic vocal performance of Dante Zanelli. This tune is quite different from other tunes in the beginning, but gradually the ensemble on the later parts is getting harder. On the last tune, they sum up Dream Theater classic tune, "Ytsejam". Overall, I really enjoyed listening to this cd having intense and driving energy. Madsword is definately one of most important Italian metal acts in my opinion. However, it is too bad that they seemed to have split up already. It is said that Gianni Guerra is going to form a new band, so we stay tuned for Guerra's new project or band.

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Magellan - Impending Ascension
Magna Carta
(1994)

Impending Ascension is the U.S. symphonic hard band's 2nd album. Magellan proves that they are capable of creating a really epic and dynamic progressive rock music. Although I have not heard their debut album yet, this album showcases complex arrangements and incredible rhythmic ensembles led by the main leader of Magellan, Trent Gardner. During early 90s, there were not many progressive rock bands I recall. However, Trent Gardner and his brother with friends have been really active for creating and playing music so many years now. This might not be their best album of Magellan, but I think Impending Ascension album has lots of great moments and intricate proggy approach. This album's theme seems to be focused on social and historical events that were kind of familar with people who are into politics and world's history. We prog fans appreciate their hard work from the members of Magellan for undying love of progressive rock and symphonic rock. It's good to look back the days that Magna Carta label had been really active for introducing modern day symphonic hard music and progressive rock from United States.

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Malpractice - Deviation from The Flow
Spinefarm Music
(2005)

Wow, this is really solid and complex prog metal band from Finland. I am glad to find out their music. Thanks for the help from the members of Malpractice to contact me, and Spinefarm that signed them with their big support. If my friends had not recommended that I need to give a try to Malpractice, I would not have considered trying out (thanks for the hints and suggestions from my dear friend, Mr. Friendly, in particular). According to the info from their website, originally they got started as thrashy metal band; later on Malpractice gradually has mutated into complex and sophisticated metal group. The album of "Deviation from The Flow" is their latest and third or fourth album, if my memory serves correctly. Stylistically, this band is close to the Norweigian and Swedith guitar-driven technical/complex prog metal bands like Manitou, Trivial Act, Saggitarius, and Heads or Tales. If those names click in you, yeah you need to check out this incredibly talented Finnish band. You see that some people have hard time to digest the music I have mentioned above, but this is not in the case. More surprisingly, the vocal melody lines of Malpractice are well arranged and nicely constructed to get into it; the quality of melody lines are amazingly accessible, plus having very contemporary touch and influence to grab all kind of metal fans, esp., appealing to prog metal enthusiasts who are into guitar-oriented technical instruments. Mostly, they put the emphasis on good melodies and hookliness while the instrumentation goes quite complex and very intricate in some songs. After having listened to their new album with several spins, no wonder there have been the buzz going on in the circle of prog metal fans. It's definitely one of most interesting prog metal acts nowadays in my honest opinion. Overall, my impression about this band is pretty good, but there does not have many keyboard sounds nor synth leads that much (keyboard-oriented prog fans need to be careful for that). Anyway, the rhythm section pulls off quite energetic, yet intricate complex parts. Not to be categorized under the tech-heads metal, but I am very intrigued enough. Well-done performance and meticulous songcraft from Malpractice members. Highly recommended for prog metal fans who are into cruncy sounds with technical approach.
[website: http://www.malpracticeband.com/]

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Mara - Poetry And Motion
Teichiku/Leviathan Records
(1994)

Relatively unknown melodic hard rock band from U.S., but Mara's second album (Poetry And Motion) shows lots of promise and great performance driven by melodic sensibilities and dynamism. Mara's music definately appeals to the fan of Journey, Kansas, Styx, and Prophet. Overall, their music of Mara has been aiming for AOR and Melodic Hard Rock fans. However, Poetry And Motion might appeal to people who are also into melodic neo-prog and melodic prog metal somehow. In my case, I really enjoy their melodic parts and hook-laden driving rock tunes. Occasionally, they also include some odd-time pieces as well. I notice that a few other press and Japanese label recommended this band to Dream Theater style fans, however be careful that they do not play in the style of DT-esque prog metal. Therefore, be aware that this band's music seems relatively categorized under the file of Melodic AOR/hard rock with nice sensibilities and catchy melodic lines. This is kind of big surprise to my ears, because they are not merely playing typical AOR music. Rather, they inject some minor twists and great instrumentaion. I do not say that Mara's music is superb, however they are definately talented musicians who perform wisely and making music so magical. Good stuff for AOR and melodic rock fans in general.

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Marillion - Six of One: Half〜Dozen of the Other
EMI
(1992)

As for the music of Marillion, I took so many years and days to get used to enjoy their music and lyrics fully. When I purchased this single collections from 1983 to 1992, I was not instantly jumping into this one with high expectation. I do not remember why I purchased this disc at first, however it contains some fine Marillion singles. This album is not exactly best of/greatest hits of Marillion, but Fish era's "Warm Wet Circle", "Kayleigh", "Incommunicado", and Steve Hogarth era's "Easter", and "No One Can", "Cover My Eyes" are standing out melodic driven tracks. Marillion has been normally argued as one of pioneers that started out neo-prog style. On this singles collection, you find some fine melodic rock/pops with very few progressive and symphonic laden elements (except for "Garden Party", "Assassing", "Warm Wet Circles", and others), but not really technical prog ensembles which you will find. If you need to explore Marillion deeply, you had better track down early Fish era's albums, such as "Misplaced Childfood" and "Clutching At Straws", in addition, classic concept bombastic epic album, "Brave" in the era of Steve Hogarth. This Singles Collection probably will be regarded as not important album among Marillion's catalog, but you will find some nice singles, such as "Easter" which was performed with Dream Theater previously at Ronnie Scott Club in U.K., and "Cover My Eyes". Every time I listen to this album, I am really intrigued by Mark Kelly's symphonic and pompous injected warm sounding keyboard works on the tracks of "Assassing" and "Incommunicado". Steve Rothery's guitar playing is getting emotional and harder, when time gets closer to 90's (on the tracks like "Hooks In You" and "Easter"). When I encountered the Marillion at first, I had hard time to get into the vocal style of Fish. That was one of the reasons I was not into Marillion deeply until 1993's release, Brave album. However, nowadays I start recognizing it is the way of Fish's expression and singing style. I admit Fish is one of very few true lyricists and storytellers. Pete Trewavas seems to have been unsung bass players, but to me, his bass playing and phrasing are very present and nice to hear. Comparing to Fish's vocal style, Steve Hogarth's singing is more accessible to me. Overall, this singles collection is not bad purchase after all. Once in a while, I go back to listen to catchy Marillion tunes from this album.

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Martone, Dave - When The Aliens Come
Lion Music
(2007)

Although I got to know the music and playing by this Canadian guitarist Dave Martone through Lion Music's compilation album previously, I've come to realize that I did not know much about his superb and fresh style until listening to his latest album, 'When The Aliens Come'. This is his second album from Lion Music, but he has been already recognized and well-respected in the scene of guitar music. Currently, he's been teaching and doing guitar-clinics mostly in the America. According to the promo notes, he's also taught at the prestigious Berklee College of Music and performed with various musicians and artists like Jon Finn Group, Steve Morse, and Marty Frieman previously to name just a few, though. This info tells you that Dave Martone is a well-experienced and equipped virtuostic musician. Speaking of his music on the latest album here, it contains lots of futuristic sounding technical guitar music. The intensity level and musicianship of Martone has a similar quality of what Ron Thal, Mattias IA Eklundh, and Steve Vai showcase in their music. I could dare to say that Dave Martone in the league of same level. Canada is also known as a country offering great musical talents like Rush, Heaven's Cry, Devin Townsend, Voivod, and Saga to name a few. The instrumental performance overall on the cd is quite impressive and mind-blowing, but he put the new approach with sound production and lots of unique effects. While managing new technology like some electronica and synthetic elements (mostly from keyboards I'm assuming) being used, Dave Martone and his band members showcase hard-driving and superbly energetic instrumental works. To make a relatively good balance between technical instrumentation and modern technology is quite difficult, but the cd of 'When The Aliens Come' is one of rare cases that sound perfect in that approach. His fresh approach mixing modern technology sounds with organic intricate ensembles by musicians' hands and fingers is quite different from other instrumentalists. Overall, this is quite unique, yet very intense guitar works. Esp., I enjoyed the tunes that have progressive metal quality and complexity. I hope he would continue this intense level with adding progressive metal flavors more. On the other hand, this cd has lots of ingredients and varied musical styles, so it might take time to enjoy it throughly. For the fans of guitar players, you have to check out his music. This is really quite impressive and extra-ordinary music displayed on his music. It's really stunning works with nice instrumental chops. Highly Recommended for guitar instrumental and technical music fans.

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Alex Masi - In The Name of Mozart
Lion Music
(2004)

In The Name of Mozart is an Italian neo-classical guitar player, Alex Masi's latest instrumental album. As you see the album cover of this review, he holds the classical guitar. Before playing this cd on my stereo player, I had a big image of classical guitar and finger plucking with nylon strings. First of all, let me excuse my thoughts on classical guitar. I had been taught classical guitar lessons by a finger plucking teacher for a few years, so I have my own opinions that the best way to play classical guitar is to pluck the strings by human fingers, not by guitar picks. As you go on reading my review articles on finger-style picking or using guitar picks albums, please be aware of my thoughts. Of course, I do not intend to write complaining. Ok, I just went off course, so go back to the impression and thoughts on Alex Masi's new album.

This is solely my personal opinion, but I had a really difficult time to enjoy first track, "Allegro" from Eine Kleine Nacht Musik. To my ears, it seem to sound like using guitar picks to perform, rather than plucking the strings by his fingers (By the way, if my comments are totally wrong, I deeply apologize Alex and Lion Music....solely, my point of view. Nothing pun-intended). What I mean is that it is a bit dry on that "Allegro" without enough vibrato expressions in my opinion, even though his performance is really excellent. In addition, this guitar strings sounds kind of "steel" to me. I get used to the performance by classical guitar ensemble or symphonic orchestra about Eine Kleine Nacht Musik, so his version seems to be sounding quite different from other performers' Eine Kleine during this listening section. After repeating several times, I have started getting used to his approach of this track. Having said my honest opinion, I imagined if he did a different approach on this, Allegro would have sounded much better. Overall, I respect Alex have tackled on this difficult piece. Normally, you would hear this music in the version of strings or symphonic orchestration. I believe Alex Masi did fine job.

After I understood his different approach and adaptation in his way, then I am getting comfortable with entire pieces of this album quite a lot. I also had my experience to try performing the pieces of Mozart music in the guitar ensemble class previously, it was very difficult to perform Mozart's music smoothly. Quite challenging and very complex with incredibly busy tempo, indeed. In the case of Alex Masi, he tackled every difficult piece with great ease and confidence. This is what I have been impressed with his works on "In The Name of Mozart". According to the credits on this cd, there is no any guest musicians besides him. He handled all guitars to play melody parts, bass lines, and some counter points, etc. Even though it was not easy to get into "Allegro" of Nachtmusik, overall I enjoyed Romanza, Allegro C maj, and rest of this album quite a lot. Esp., my favorite track of what he has done is Guitar (piano) Concerto #24 that you enjoy both orchestrated strings sections and super-clean fast guitar solos by Alex Masi. Indeed, it was very challenging stuff to overcome a genius composer like Mozart's famous music like Eine Kleine and Thema with 12 variations D Maj. However, Alex's classical adaptions with his great attitude make this album shining and unique. What I was also impressed with this album in particular was that he never included electric guitars. Basically, this is labor of love with his acoustic and classical guitar performances. In The Name of Mozart is a great homage to W.A. Mozart.

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Masi, Alex - In The Name of Beethoven
Lion Music
(2005)

This is the latest guitar instrumental album by Italian guitar maestro, Alex Masi. The title of his album itself tells what kind of music is featured. In recent years, Alex Masi has released his classical albums paying homage to maestros like J.S.Bach and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. In this time, Alex completes this new release featuring Beethoven music with his classical album series. I assume that he has studied and researched very hard to make sound right on guitar instrumentals from originally keyboard written music. This task does not sound easy, yet require you to peform correctly and re-arrange precisely to sound right. Overall, Alex has successfully managed to complete this amazingly difficult jobs to play almost perfect by all guitars. If you have a chance, try listen to any Beethoven's classical original pieces before checking out Alex's guitar rendition. In The Name of Beethoven album features all classic Beethoven's famous composisions, such as Symphony no.5 (first movement), Sonata no.01, Moonlight Sonata, and so on. Esp., I have been very impressed with Moonlight Sonata. I believe it seems quite tricky and hard task to get the job done right on re-arranging guitar playings. However, Alex Masi performs really beutiful and gracefully with great dynamics and nice projections. Like Moonlight Sonata, other songs have been greatly peformed entirely. I thought that playing Bach and Mozart by guitars was also very tough. Alex Masi perfectly managed to perfrom and re-create great Beethoven stuffs on this album. Mostly, nice acoustic and classical guitar sounds with his sutbtle expression you can hear. We thank his brilliant performance and arrangements with great efforts to shed some new lights on classical maestros. Thanks for taking time to make nice music.

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Masi, Alex - Late Night At Desert Rimrock
Lion Music
(2007)

Alex Masi has been very active since he joined the Finnish label Lion Music in the late 90's. As you see that, I've already reviewed his acoustic solo albums and an energetic hard fusion group MCM that Alex has involved as a core member. All albums I reviewed showcase Alex Masi's brilliant guitar works and his instrumentation. However, I think it would be my first try for listening to his latest electric solo album. Just like his other works, 'Late Night At Desert Rimrock' shows really intense and hot-burning heavy rock album. Probably, some neo-classical metal fans would find out shred 80's elements from his new album. Even though this album is Masi's new electric-form solo album, you could find some similarities and differences between MCM and his electric solo stuffs. On this album, Alex handling all instrumentals (except for drums) jams with the incredible drum player John Macaluso who also performed on MCM. This time, Randy Coven (bass player for MCM) has been absent here, but probably I hope they might perform together for some time in the future project. Oh well, you could say that this is another MCM project without Randy, but the thing is a bit different you assume. There are some neo-classical hard rock elements for some listners, but I do not think this is purely neo-classical HR/HM, per se. The intensity level on the cd is quite similar to MCM, but the approach on the cd is different. The instrumental performance between Alex and John is obviously quite intricate and complex, that is for sure. In addition, Alex put various unusual sounds like tabla, bells, and even Loops that sound really having a good spice and kept things going quite exciting with artificial human complex instrumentation. Late Night At Desert Rimrock has lots of interesting sounds and complicated performance by Alex and John. If you are into the technical guitar instrumental with new sound approach, this album would be very interesting for you. It's a cross between technical hard rock and modern sounding heavy rock with new twists.

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Alex Masi - Theory of Everything
Lion Music
(2011)

"Theory of Everything" is a veteran shred Italian guitar player's latest album released in 2011. Alex Masi has been constantly releasing his solo albums in recent years. In addition, his energetic guitar work on MCM has also got recognized in the instrumental music circle. I heard that two releases of MCM have also appealed to complex prog metal listeners as well. His latest album showcases slightly different from his previous albums. "Theory of Everything" includes a kind of versatile and varied heavy rock instrumental with the elements of modern electro sounds. Some people out there might compare his new album with Jeff Beck or Jennifer Batten's solo album featuring modern sounds, yet very guitar-driven instrumental. Alex Masi has managed to combine hot burning guitar shreds with comtemporary and electric sounds including some kind of electronica and sampling sounds from music software. Overall, it's electrified guitar-driven album comparing to his previous acoustic-based instrumentals (homage to classical composers). Sometimes, being motivated constantly is not easy for veteran musicians. However, new album of Alex Masi proves that his inspiration comes from everywhere. Totally, it has fresh energy and powerful guitar performance. To me, it's quite surprising to see all instrumentals are performed by Alex himself (except for his main instruments Guitar). If you are looking for slightly different guitar instrumentals with fresh angles, then this album would sound quite interesting for guitar mania.

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Mastercastle - Last Desire
Lion Music
(2010)

'Last Desire' is the second album of Italian metal group featuring fantastic female vocalist Giorgia Gueglio and incredible guitar player Pier Gonella (Labyrinth). It's really a quick move for this group to have completed second album after the first album received a relatively nice feedback. Just like their previous album, the focus of Mastercastle is very melodic and straightforward heavy metal music with technical shred guitar solos. The drumming/bass parts have laid down solid foundation with constant beats. Once again, all numbers are very catchy and accessible with fantastic vocal melodies. Perhaps, this album sounds much catchier and friendlier to delve into for the listener, comparing to their fine previous album. I think the approach of Mastercastle is somewhat unique and refreshing, even though their main focus is straightforward heavy metal. Most melodies sung by Giorgia Gueglio might have a big chance to the listener who has never tried hard rock and metal music in general. In addition, the mix and production on this cd is really well done just like their previous album. It's noticeable for me that neo-classical metal influences are somewhat stripped away and minimized, except for some guitar solo works; that is the big difference between new cd and previous one I think. Mastercastle definitely keep the spirit and energy of quality heavy metal, but this Italian band's music -- esp., on the second album -- seem to welcome any music listener who gives a listen. Once again, new album of this Italian metal group gives a pleasant and immediate feeling for someone who dig Italian group's efforts. In general, quality Italian metal bands have captured the hearts of metal fans. Mastercastle is also one of important new heavy metal groups that you should keep an eye on. Overall, 'Last Desire' showcases impressive musicianship with quality metal sounds and lyrical sensibilities.

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Mastercastle - The Phoenix
Lion Music
(2009)

'The Phoenix' is the Italian metal group's very first debut album featuring Labyrinth's guitar player Pier Gonella and female vocalist Giorgia Gueglio. If you look for melodic-oriented heavy metal with Italian elements, this one must be a right spot for you. At first, the music of Mastercastle did not convince me instantly, but each track on this cd gradually grabbed my attention to find my enjoyable moments. Even though I am not following each release of Labyrinth in recent years, I would not say this is over-the-top kind of Italian melodic power metal or any hints of dramatic prog metal, if you are curious. There are some traces and influences from Symphony X and Yngwie Malmsteen, but what Mastercasle have cooked on their music is based on melodic heavy metal or powerful metal if you hear it closely. The focal point of this group's instrumentation is definitely Pier Gonella's proficient guitar skills and technical shreds that sound amazingly crisp. Lead vocal works of Giorgia Guelio is pleasant and fantastic overall; she does sing cleanly and soars without been forced. Guest musician Alessandro Bissa from Vision Divine lends his powerful drumming and subtle cymbal works for the band Pier Gonella created. The nature of this new Italian metal group is straight-forward and appealing to general metal audience. Mastercastle keep the spirit of authentic and traditional powerful heavy metal all the time. It's interesting to find out that what they have achieved on here is never leaning heavily on gothic metal nor symphonic metal. From beginning to end, the musicians of Mastercastle stay performing pleasantly heavy and passionate metal with hook-laden melodies and solid ensemble. Although they put a huge emphasis on heavy metal sounds, it does not sound dated. It rather sounds very fresh and somehow maintains contemporary feelings throughout the whole package. 'The Phoenix' might not be a ground breaking melodic heavy metal album, but I could definitely say the debut album of Mastercastle has been well produced and performed entirely. To my ears, it does not sound anything reminding me of Italian Underground Symphony artists; such as, Rhapsody of Fire or Time Machine for instance. The way Mastercastle has presented on this debut album sounds unique and intriguing most time.

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Mastermind - Insomnia
Lion Music
(2010)

New Jersey-based prog rocker Mastermind featuring Bill Berends (guitars/vocals) and Rich Berends (drums) returns with their anticipated new album. Many prog rock fans are probably much familiar to their predecessors like 'Brainstorm' and 'Excelsior' that showcase intricate progressive ensembles and complex fusiony style. To me, their work of 'Volume Two: Brainstorm' was my first encounter and revelation to the music of Mastermind. Their intense prog performance reminds me of a famous British progressive rock trio Emerson, Lake & Palmer occasionally, but they definitely have their own character and bombastic instrumentations. Eventually, that album just totally blew me away. What this U.S. prog rock group set apart from the comtemporaries was their massive useage of synth/midi-guitar pyrotechnics handled by Bill Berends in their early works. Most prog bands inspired by British prog groups like EL&P usually rely on analog and digital synthesizers, but Mastermind managed to create somewhat EL&P like energies without depending on any typical keyboards and synths.

Even though their technical instrumental prowess might have been best known among their fans, they slowly moved away from the EL&P inspired sounds to accomplish their signature sounds. Since 'Excelsior' received a great feedback and high praises, some prog fans have recognized that Mastermind are not limited in the category of EL&P school prog sounds. More and more, they have cultivated their new ground and explored different approaches these days. In fact, their sixth full length album 'Angels of the Apocalypse' saw their big change to have transformed into a kind of symphonic power metal. The addition of female lead vocalist Lisa Bouchelle surprised some others, yet could appeal to the more wider audience out there. Although I have not heard the entire album, a few songs that I heard through radio show and music websites were a kind of different from what I had heard in the era of Brainstorm. Indeed, those songs represent Mastermind's new direction waiving goodbye to stereo-typical prog rock sounds.

After having released the album dominated by symphonic power metal sounds and neo-classical heavy metal influences, there was not much news from the camp of this U.S. veteran group for some years until about two years ago I think. After all, they independently released the 'Broken' EP that sounds completely different from symphonic metal sounds on the predecessor once again. This meant that their contract with InsideOut deal had been over. In any way, the EP is more like song-oriented heavy prog rock with the elements of modern hard rock coming from perhaps A Perfect Circle and Tool that come to my mind. Well, I do not want to scare the readers per se. No matter what this group makes a new transformation, they successfully maintain great compositional skills and quality production (that's for sure). Okay, I hope that's enough to cover the brief history and previous works of Mastermind.

The new and seventh full lengh entitled 'Insomnia' has also some changes comparing to the previous album. Surprisingly, Lion Music scored the new deal with Mastermind. I hope they continue having a good relationship with a Finnish label. Lead vocalist Lisa Bouchelle is no longer a member in the band. Instead, new singer Tracy McShane who performed on the 'Broken' EP becomes a permanent member of Mastermind this time. Musically speaking, most numbers on this new album are song-oriented with a strong emphasis on darker and intelligent flavors of comtemporary hard rock. The listener who has absorbed their prog era or symphonic metal style would be very surprised by their ambitious approach, unless you check out the songs of Broken EP. I kind of understand that one of my prog rock fellows enjoying previous Mastermind's works could not get into this new album most time. In my case, I was not very surprised by Mastermind's new approach at all, since I've enjoyed the EP a lot. I would rather welcome this starightforward approach with the addition of Tracy McShane's strong vocal performance and her melodic deliveries.

Stylistically, the emphasis of this album is not very complex, but there are a couple songs that have an impressive instrumental performance and intricate guitar solos of Bill Berends. To me, highlight of the album is the eighth number "Night Flier" having a great instrumentation, such as a powerful guitar solo of Bill Berends and superb synth solo by Jens Johansson. This instrumental track is definitely attracting many prog and technical fusion fans. However, all songs featuring Tracy McShane are well composed and performed in my honest opinion. Vocal melodies of Tracy are very catchy and appealing; she conveys her emotions and passions through most songs -- that's a big plus for the song-oriented heavy rock listerner. One common denominator of 'Insomia' album has dark moods and warm sounds with solid band's performance and McShane's singings. There also have some songs, such as third track "One More Night" featuring the lead vocals of Bill Berends. The tempo of most songs is relatively medium paced or a bit slower, yet they have great dynamics, haunting melodies and subtleties that attract general music listeners. Even though the pace of each number is not very fast, the songs like dramatic "Piggy World" and superbly intense and speedy "Night Flier" have immediate punches and faster tempo (thanks to the band including these uptempo tracks).

Other than these tracks, I'd like to leave my comments about each song as many as possible. The opening track "Desire" has melodic and sing-along choruses. Second track "Bring Me Down" with a slower tempo has mysterious and proggy atmospheres with solid heavy ensemble. Third track "One More Night" has nice male and female duet vocals and hard driven energy with bits of ballad-type appproach. Fourth track "Meltdown" is a daker and heavier song in the vein of Black Sabbath, but it gradually picks up the tempo and crescendos with brilliant synth lead of Jens Johansson. Sixth track "No Answer" shows emotional vocal performance by Tracy McShane; her melodic lines delivers sorrow and hurt feelings successfully. Seventh number 'Broken' is also featured on the EP, yet this song deserves to be included on the album because of great chorus parts and strong hooks with oriental and mysterious flavors I've totally enjoyed. Yeah, ninth song "Nietzsche" can not be missed. This is one of my favorite numbers along with "Night Flier" and "Piggy World." It features Jens Johansson's unique synth lines and very solid heavy rock/hard rock energies packed; there are nice interplays between Bill and Jens again. Of course, Tracy's performance delivers goods -- strong emotions and passions. The last song "Last Cigarette" is a bit difficult to get into at first; but if you pay attention to the song closely, you would find sadness and brooding feelings in a slow tempo. Definitely, the focal point of this song could be some melodic expressions and sensibilites of McShane.

As I delve into the music on this album with repeated listenings, I discover massive enjoyments and surprises through new sounds of Mastermind. The sounds and production are greatly organized and well made. They put the emphasis of great melodies and chorus parts over technicality and complexity, yet the instrumental section and heavier ensembles attract both hard rock and general music fans out there. I assume open-minded prog rock fans who also enjoy harder sounds and mysterious prog metal atmospheres would possibly get into the new album as well. So far, I am very impressed by the result of 'Insomnia' album. If you are curious about how they sound in the new direction, just take a look and visit their website. Great job done!
[official website: http://www.mastermindband.com/]
[MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/mastermindband]

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Mattson - Another Dimention
Lion Music
(2000)

Mattson is a fine melodic progressive metal project led by a long time-hard working veteran guitar player, Lars Eric Mattson from Finland. Lars Eric Mattson has been released several guitar instrumental solo albums and more than a couple albums by his own band, Vision. I recall that some enthusiastic guitar freaks always follow his works. Before I encountered Lion Music, I had never heard of any Lars Eric Mattson related works; however "Another Dimention" seems to be a kind of surprise offering, 'cuz the music on this progressive melodic metal/hard rock had been well done to my ears. Before I heard any material of Lars Eric Mattson, I have seen not-impressive reviews on Japanese Metal Media sadly. But no way to such media, melodic drama and heavy music on this Lion's Music artists album blow away such of my anxiety. The music itself on "Another Dimension" clicks on me as a fans of melodic hard music.Musically, Mattson concentrates on building the music of melodic and slightly complex metal with the hints of style of Prog Metal. Neverthess, they do not sound closer to Dream Theater/Fates Warning vein at all not to misunderstand their music style. Rather, their music resides in the world of Scandinavian Melodic Metal/Hard Rock with neo-classical flaved elements a la Yngwie Malmsteen, Glory, and Europe, but they challenged including symphonic prog rock touches and nuances of heavy prog metal vibes on music. After you listen to whole album more than a few times, Mattson let me know that they are slightly different from so-called follower type bands. This project's mastermind, Lars, seemed to have been working hard to accomplish making a different kind of melodic prog metal music, but obviously he never abondoned what he has achieved in his previous works. Thus "Another Dimention" never fails to appeal other melodic metal and hard rock fans in my opinion. "Another Dimension" album features Lars Eric Mattson (guitars/bass/keyboards) and a hard rock vocalist Bjorn Lodin (from legendary melodic hard rockers, BALTIMOORE) as a core members. Additionaly, fantastic guest musicians, such as Patrick Rondat and Rob Johnson plays blazing guitar solos. Moreover, established prog rock keyboard players Eric Norlander and Par Lindh layed down symphonic rock atmospheres. There are also few other guest musians including violinist and backing vocals who offers nice nuances, and helps to create different melodic metal sounds. In other words, musicianship is quite high and find solid performance here and there entirely. Not least and not last, Lars Eric Mattson's guitar playing is smooth and quite tasty. Several intense hard driving complex prog metal tunes like "Hell", "Don't Change My Mind", "Burning My Soul", and "Another Dimension" are quite successful to impress listeners. On other soothing and moderate melodic songs, such as, "Angel Blue" and "Don't LoseYour Patience" give enjoyment and relax moments. A songwriting of Lars also proves that melodic heavy rock listeners has been enjoying his materials . If you are into this type of music, you will enjoy so much on this. My only minor complaints on this album are that some parts on Keyboards and Drums are dry and flat, esp., on chorus parts of "Crash and Burn" and the introduction part of "Angel Blue" are bit weak to me. Esp, during some calm/soft tunes, I find that drum/cymbal sounds are very dry in short period of time. Of course, that is my minor coplaints I have so far on this album. Other than that, I really enjoy the album of Another Dimention by Mattson musically. It is worthwhile to check out for the fans of Melodic Prog Metal and Melodic Scandinavian Metal. Really good work!!

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Mattson - Power Games
Lion Music
(2003)

Power Games is a 2nd album of Mattson from Finland. Basically, Power Games became a project of Lion's Music mastermind, Lars Eric Mattson and ex. Balance of Power singer Lance King (who is also responsible for Nightmare Records), comparing to Mattson's first album featuring several prog metal and prog metal guest musicians. I think Mattson is one of best projects/bands Lars Eric Mattson has ever get involved as a mucisian. Power Games reveals Lars Eric Matsson's multi-instrumentalist side and quite good songwriting ability with melodic and emotional singing by Lance King. Basically, this is two-man project, however the music of this album sounds very full and energetic. Mattson is not as intricate and complex as their another progressive super-project like Condition Red, but their music contains some neo-classical prog metal bombast and melodic hard rock tunes with good instrumentation. I think Lars Eric Mattson's guitar playing is really fantastic and dramatic on the entire album. Esp., guitar solo by Lars featured on this album is one of his best moments. Lance King has already proven that he has an extraordinary voice and shows vocal melodies, since the days of Balance of Power, so nothing wrong with his style to me. It is amazing to know that Lars has constantly released more than several albums so far. We have seen some bands and musicians tend to lose their motivation and ambitions to create furesh music throughout their music career. Nevertheless, Lars keep making music enthusiastically. Henceforce, I admit his new music is getting better than his past. Mattson blends neo-classical power metal and melodic prog metal effectively. Overall, I enjoyed listening to this music so far. Lars is very ambitious toward the areas of both musician side and label side. Good job, again.
[website: http://www.lionmusic.com]
[e-mail: info@lionmusic.com]

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Mattson - Tango
Lion Music
(2010)

Almost every year, Finnish guitar player Lars Eric Mattson releases new cd of his related solo project or collaboration work featuring the artists of Lion Music. Mr. Mattson has been very busy to intensify his various activities since the label of Lion Music put their place in the scene of rock music. Looking back what he's released in a few decades, the numbers of his works including his own solo album, Vision, Mattson, Condition Red, and Book of Reflections are steadily growing. That's a great accomplishment for him, indeed. If my memory serves correctly, he started as instrumental guitarist playing in the style of neo-classical melodic hard rock and metal since late 1970's or early 1980's. He must have been going through his own achievements and some struggles in the music business for many years; but he continuously strives very hard to release numerous albums in his own pace. Beginning of his career was a kind of more straightforward melodic hard rock/heavy metal, but gradually his main emphasis on the music has gradually evolved into complex prog metal (Mattson/Condition Red/his solo works) and symphonic power metal (Book of Reflections, etc) with his signature sounds.

Speaking of the newest album of Mattson, 'Tango' shows one of his strongest moments in his music career. The cd features some complex prog metal instrumentation, song-oriented melodic hooks and powerfully driven rock tracks with relatively good independent production. Although Tango has a strong tone of complexity in some notable songs, it is not entirely too progressive to get into. In the beginning, I thought this album seemed to have gone into complex side from start to finish, but the truth is that there have catchier verse-chorus type standard structures, too. Thankfully, Lars has never abandoned the straightforwardness for the listener, nor forgot including attractive catchy parts and amazing female lead vocals of Adrienn Antaｌ in the majority of this album. Yeah, the performance of Adrienn Antal is very nice and inspiring just like a previous album of Mattson; I think she is a first rate female vocalist with great vocal timbres and broad ranges. Besides her, the singer Markku Kuikka of a great new prog metal groupStatus Minor lends his helping hand to handle lead singing in several songs as well. Occasionally, you could also hear the singing parts of Lars Eric Mattson as backing and lead vocals on some notable songs.

In addition, this new album introduces new influences of updated keyboard gears and synth sounds perhaps coming from both hard synth and soft synth as well. I really enjoyed some synth melodic passages and short leads of keyboards. There are nice pad sounds featured and the addition of warm orhcestral sounds coming from The Astral Strings and Woodwinds. Of course, you can not miss the technical guitar soloings of Lars Eric Mattson to enchance and dramatize the whole music. Overall, the new album of Mattson sounds one of best works he's involved in recent years. To me, 'Another Dimension' album has been holding special place regarding his music career; however the total song and instrumental qualities of Tango could compete against it side by side. His music has possibly some influences from comtemporary progressive metal or neo-classical power metal groups; but he has distinctive sounds and style not to be identical with influencial bands. If you want to hear strictly complex prog metal or traditional power metal, it might be difficult to get into his music at first. I think Mattson's new album has been managed to showcase original yet unique prog metal sounds with both complex songs and traditional straightforward metal structures. For some, it is getting enjoyable if you take time to digest this new album with subsequent listens. If you follow the music of Mattson for more than a decade, you'll find some enjoyments and his unique approach with new influences. I suggest you take a moment to find out whether you are going to like or not on his website and MySpace page. It's another winner for the camp of Mattson.

[official website: http://www.larsericmattsson.com/]
[MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/larsericmattsson]

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Mattson - War
Lion Music
(2005)

I think the manias of long time guitar insturmental music can't believe how long Lars Eric Mattson has been faithfully and constantly making music. In addition, while he has been a responsible for Lion Music featuring lots of great artists/instrumental players, he has several projects and solo works going on. He must have been devoting music and helping young bands/artists intimately. Having said about his great career a bit (sort of), now we must turn his recent works of Mattson. I used to think Mattson has been representing what Lion Music is all about, because of swirling guitar solos and complex comositions with great energy and enthusiasm toward instrumentations. Over five to six years, Lion Music has been known one of most important European labels supporting excellent instrumentals and ProgPower music in general. I really thank you for Lasse's great achievement to put Lion Music on the map of rock/metal music history. Oops, probably I tend to being off-course again (LOL), okay go back to the Mattson's latest work, War. It's great for Mattson that War is their 3rd musical installment, and it turn out impressive. Comparing to Mattson's previous album Power Games that is basically a project of Lasse and Lance King (ex. Balance of Power), War album features many artists from Lion Music and also from outside Lion Music boundaries. War is kind of symphonic and unique melodic prog metal project featuring many artists, such as Irene Janssen (ex. Karma), Vitalij Cuprij, Andre Vuurboom (e.x. Sun Caged), and even members from Condition Red. Some parts are very progressive metal oriented, but other straight-forward approach has been laid out with neo-classical metal ways. For me, the songs featuring Irene Janssen and Andre Vuurboom are quite exciting and very interesting overall. These vocalists are my favorite artists, so nothing short of greatness that they have shown on War. I think there is a lot of things going on within this album, so you can mostly enjoy fantastic vocal works, instrumentation, and melodies. War is interestingly kind of a mix bag of the elements of Mattson, Condition Red, and Book of Reflections, but War is very much different from what Mattson has ever done in other words. Probably, some people would guess this is kind of another Ayreon-like epic project. Nevertheless, Mattson's War does not have similar atmopheres like what Ayreon has been good about, for instance symphonic neo-prog bombastic drama. Yes, but Mattson's music has been also well-orchestrated, but more tendency of neo-classical symphonic sounds rather than neo-prog/prog rock vibes. Overall, I think War has been packed fresh ideas and some curve balls with new ideas on both vocal parts and instrumental approach. I would not say this album is ground-breadking work, but Mattson's latest efforts successfully gives fresh moments. I believe this is Mattson's best work so far.

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Mattson, Lars Eric - Aurora Borealis
Lion Music
(2011)

If you are following the artists and groups of Lion Music from the beginning, then I do not need to introduce the label master & guitarist from Finland. Lars Eric Mattson releases his own music with new ideas and unique approach every year. His latest solo album has a bit different twists this time; he introduced orchestral sounds with his neo-classical leaning guitar instrumentals. Of course, it features his fluid guitar soloing and Finnish melodies. Even though his guitar soloing approach is not much different from his previous albums in most times, the last two numbers featured on 'Aurora Borealis' are focused on progressive side hard rock/metal. The combination of electric sounds and chamber style orchestral parts are unique for the listener. Such approach might remind you a bit of Uli Jon Roth who has delved into both European classical music and heavy metal for the first place. Maybe, someone would find similarities between Yngwie Malmsteen's concerto album and Mattson's new cd 'Aurora Borealis'. Perhaps, there are some common threads and influences from them; however, Lars Eric Mattson himself showcases his original approach and his own charms onto this entire cd. The musical structure of this album is neither intricate nor mindboggling. Melodies and music structure of this album are relatively approacheable for someone who is into melodic guitar music. It's always fun to find out his meticulous and fast shred guitar soloings. On the other hand, It's enjoyable to hear his two hand tappings introduced and more progressive side on the latter half of this new album that sound quite interesting. I hope Lars Eric Mattson would delve into more progressive instrumental realms once again like his previous solo albums. Indeed, it's another new accomplishment for his solo work.

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Mattson, Lars Eric - Earthbound
Lion Music
(2005)

Finally, His new solo album of Lars Eric Mattson has been out. Before delving into the review of Earthbound, I'd like to mention a hard working rock label, Lion Music in the beginning. Since a new century got started, Lion Music has been constantly releasing lots of impressive guitar-oriented and progressive-oriented music. Every year, I am really surprised to find some great gems and fine albums, constantly. Okay, now you wonder who is responsible for Lion Music label. This label is led by none other than Finnish guitar player, Lars Eric Mattson. Lars is not stranger, what is so ever in rock music business. Within five years, Lion Music has been really recognized from all guitar-freaks and prog metal fans. About a few years ago, I happened to meet Lasse (a nickname of Lars, btw), and having a really great time. No wonder many guitarists and musicians trust him and his label, hence Lion Music has got quite good reputations nowadays. I think he deserves releasing a new solo album this time, while he's been quite busy for his musical activities and business side. Okay, having said that, let's take a look at his latest one. Actually, it's been long time since he entered music business, and released his own works back then. Many years has passed, and his music direction and approach have been quite different from his past days. I think his solo album original released about several years ago I assume was neo-classical style guitar instrumental works. I do not think he abandoned all neo-classical Heavy Metal roots, yet he has laid out some progressive flavors and complex fusion-esque heavy elements on Earthbound. His band efforts are somewhat categorized under the progressive metal banner that I have enjoyed. This new album is more staright-forward than his band project and group works, yet you'll find some intricacies and some complex guitar works here and there. It's quite amazing to hear that Lasse never give up improving his musical works and guitar-chops. He constantly keeps up his head to explore new horizons in the sence of guitar instrumental and progressive music. Probably, this album appeals to the fans of guitar instrumentals than prog metal listeners. However, I think some tracks have progressive music and prog metal influences, so hopefully prog metal fans also be aware on some complex tracks as well. I think Lasse's new album surpassed his previous solo materials again. I hope he's going to make another new accomplishment later. Great job, Lasse. :-)

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Lars Eric Mattson - Electric Voodoo
Lion Music
(1991)

This is quite fine neo-classically influenced guitar instrumental album to me. Lars Eric Mattson has released several fine guitar driven albums through his projects and bands. So far, I have impressed with his work, such as Mattson - Another Dimention. Electric Voodoo must appeal melodic neo-classical guitar instrumental fans who are into Torben Enevoldsen and such music. Currently, Lars Eric Mattson must have been quite busy for his projects and LION MUSIC Records business, but constantly he re-released his previous materials and new projects. I guess he handles well both business side and musical activity well. Ok, go back to his album impression. Except for his recent works like MATTSON and CONDITION RED, Electric Voodoo album must be one of his best works. His guitar phrasings and playings are really melodic and singing well. Oh well, what can I add for the comment? In any way, some tunes are kind of neo-classical hard rock tunes reminding me of early Yngwie Malmsteen and Stratovarius, but he has his own trademarks in his manner. So Electric Voodoo is fine instrumental album to me.

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Lars Eric Mattson - No Surrender + Live
Lion Music
(1989/2009)

Lion Music from Finland has been recognized as one of enthusiastic independent labels geared toward progressive metal and guitar-oriened instrumental music over many years. Not only do they work very hard, but never being stoppable to introduce us to quality artists and talented groups through constant new release every month. Once again, we would like to say thanks a million to Lions Music for their strong achievements, and tip my hats off to the label exective leader Lars Eric Mattson. I definitely think that his passion and aims for music in general contribute in the scene of instrumental rock and prog metal. Even though Lasse (Lars Eric Mattson) has been better known as a label owner, please do not forget that he has already released several solo albums and various projects under his belt.

We had better not underestimate his musical approach and instrumental work; Some of his musical projects intrigue various music listeners. In particular, the album 'Another Dimention' by his very first prog/power oriented project Mattson had a surprisingly fresh impact on me. Yeah, I've said enough about its introduction and overview of Lasse, so let's delve into the music of "No Surrender + Live" from now on. Technically, this cd is not his brand-new album; It's a reissue and remastered album previously released in 1989. Additionally, unreleased live materials from his previous released solo albums are included on this special edition. The cd of "No Surrender" showcases melodic sensibilities and hook-laden hard rock compositions from start to finish. Some fans of Mattson consider that this is one of Lasse's best accomplishment works so far. Indeed, there are some impressive moments, so I'd like to agree with their opinion.

It contains 20 tracks in total for celebrating his rock music career. You see the clue of why this album has many tracks, since this original release was released almost twenty years ago. Stylistically, the band of Lars Eric Mattson performs here remindinng me of good old days' European melodic metal bands and quality hard rock groups in 1980's, like Europe, Scorpions, and even Dokken to name just a few. However, please do not get me wrong, because Lasse has established his own style and identity within this fine melodic rock tracks. Especially, he's put his exotic phrasings and Finnish melodious style into the music on this impressive release. In recent years, Lasse's work has been relatively known for his recent progressive compositions with some intricate ensembles and helps from different prog metal and rock areas. Therefore, some people can not get enough to find out his proggy elements and acrobatic kind of time signatatures.

On the other hand, you will find some hidden treasures from these finely crafted hard music and instrumentally well performed songs in the style of Finnish metal/rock group, just considering even way back in late 1980's. Of course, one of high points on this cd is the prowess of Mattson's guitar soloing in the vein of Uli John Roth and James Byrd for some listener. I'm quite impressed with the way Mattson had alreadye stablished his own signature sounds and Finnish sensibilities when this release was out. Although I enjoy his progressive power metal style presented on the album of Mattson - Another Dimention and his other projects in this new centry we are living, "No Surrender" also proves that Lasse and his previous Finnish band members have provided solid sound production and laid out straight-forward European hard rock/metal during 80's. The original compositions of "No Surrender" still sound relatively good quality and stand the test of time in my opinion. As a live band, unreleaed live tracks showcased how they were really tight as well. For Lasse, this release could be a really good "walking down on memory lane" to look back what he has accomplished in his musical history. If you are into European melodic hard rock and meal in 1980's style, this would be a fine cd to check out for pure enjoyment.

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MCM - Ritual Factory
Lion Music
(2004)

MCM is the project of three well-known Prog Metal/Hard Rock/Instrumental artists, such as Alex Masi (guitars), Randy Coven (bass), and John Macaluso (drums). Before listening to this cd, the booklet and photographs lead me to think MCM must be a live act. Indeed, Ritual Factory album features intense and hot-burning ensemble in the style of Hard Fusion/metalized technical jazz rock. What MCM surprised me was Alex Masi's versatile guitar playing with energetic rhythm sections of Randy Coven and John Macaluso. Some of you recognize Alex Masi has been one of classically influenced technical guitar player. However, you hardly find his guitar playing nowhere to neo-classical style playing on this album. Of course, Alex Masi blazes his guitar soloing and astonishing works in different manners. In my case, this is his finest moments throughout his musical career I think. Maybe, his style on this Ritual Factory is kind of closer to Chris Poland and Mike Ohm more than his usual guitar style. Moreover, Randy Coven and John Macaluso's rhythmic approach is also very important and intense. Thre are lots of fine moments in their complex instrumental structures. Entirely, Ritual Factory intrigues the listeners who are into challenging fusion and jazz style music leaning toward more heavier approach. Due to the participation of Coven and Macaluso, MCM may appeal to the fans of ARK and their related work who are more open-minded toward the adventerous music. I think several websites have already raved about this one. Well-done hard progressive fusion album. Totally impressed from the beginning to the end.

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Mechanical Organic - Flat Earth Society
Independent Release
(2006)

Three piece band Mechanical Organic hails from Australia with their full-length debut album, 'Flat Earth Society'. This is not the group I usually write for reviews on my website, but it is a good opportunity to try and find a new discovery like Mech Org (in short of Mechanical Organic). Regarding this Australian group, I think what this group plays reminds me of the industrial metal/electronic thrash groups like Prong and Fear Factory for insntace. The cd of theirs contains 11 heavy rock tracks with the influence of electronica and synthetic sounds. For me, it's quite difficult to pinpoint what kind of rock/metal music they are striving for. Putting aside the profiling the genre of what they are playing, I think these musicians of Mechanical Organic took time to make heavy, yet straight-forward electronic metal music. They do not usually put the emphasis on speedy instrumentations or complexity, but you find lots of tracks mixing slightly catchier heavy metal/rock vibes with electronica elements. The first track, "What Have We Become", instantly grabs the listener to draw their organic rock instrumental performance with industrial sounds. Mostly, the tracks on the first half of the cd, did not convince or grabe me strongly into their music, due to similar tempo and sounding tracks. Gradually, the second half of the cd sounds better and accessible to my ears. Occasionally, the fast guitar solos make me awe and enjoyable to hear. In addition, the way of using keyboards and electronics is interesting for someone who is into synthetic and atmospheric kind of music in general. The final track, 'This They Must Never Know' mostly and entirely consists of dialog and vocals that sounds quite unique and impressive in my opinion. It sounds very interesting and intriguing as much as the first track that clicks me big time. Overall, what Mechanical Organic performs is unique and electronic-oriented heavy rock/powerfully driven modern metal music with slightly progressive leanings. Even though the musical approach of theirs is difeerent from most prog metal and prog rock groups, a few tracks on Flat Earth Society come to mind another Australian groups, such as Vaudxvihl and Where Echoes End. If you are into quite different sounding metal group or synth-drenched industrial heavy rock bands, then Mechanical Organic sound very fresh to your ears.
[website: http://www.mechanicalorganic.com/]

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Hubi Meisel - Cut
Miez Records
(2002)

After participating notable prog metal band DREAMSCAPE and SCENES, Hubi Meisel from Germany started his own solo project and side project related to progressive metal and melodic hard rock in recent few years. His first official solo album was beyond my expectation. I thought that he would pursue his music with MAEVE OF CONNACHT, but it was wrong assumption. Hubi released new solo album, "Cut" which is entirely all cover album this year. He seemed to have spent for several months to make fantastic all cover tunes of 80s. [ALERT: please do not expect anything progressive metal and melodic metal music like DREAMSCAPE and MAEVE OF CONNACHT]. However, the music he covered on CUT provide listeners some kind of original interpretation and charms by Hubi Meisel, if you have experienced the era of "fanboy (or fangirl??)" in 80s like me. "Cut" album contains hit tunes of CUTTING CREW, REAL LIFE, THE CARS, FRANKIE GOES TO HOLLYWOOD, A-HA, MR. MISTER, and RUSH. Originally, a few more tunes were supposed to be on his album, but all tunes are arranged and produced by Hubi Meisel himself with heavier edge and his taste. In particular, the help of ex.LEMUR VOICE/SUN CAGED guitar player, Marcel Coenen, did outstanding efforts to enhance nostalgic atmosphere and add a bit heavier edge on each tune. His guitar playing is always incredible and pretty technical on the tunes like "Relax" and "The Sun Always Shines On TV". As for Hubi Meisel's vocal performance, his singing is smooth and comfortable in his range. Some people enjoy listening to his sweet and whispery style, but might not for all of them. I definately think that his style is quite original, and appeals some listeners since the days of DREAMSCAPE. His style is one and only, which sometimes reminds me of distinctive voical style like Andre Matos of ex.ANGRA/SHAMAN (Of course, what I meant is that Hubi Meisel has distinctive vocal style, so please do not get me wrong). Moreover, on some tunes, he ventured into a bit powerful vocal styles, such as "Send Me An Angel". I believe that he seems to improve his vocal range with heavy rock style pretty well within recent years. That is pretty plus. Within affordable budget, Hubi and his fellow musicians completed this album with relatively nice sound production. In addition, nice performance of Hubi and his musicians successfully preserve charms and nostalgic atmospheres of 1980's style big hit music. If you have not experienced 80's music in your school days, probably Cut album would introduce you to try out some 80's music having special melodies for fun. If you enjoyed 80's music along with heavier rock side, then this album means something special. Melodic Rock and Pop tunes packed with nice dose of heavier edge.
[HJM Promotion: promo@hubimeisel.com]
[http://www.hubimeisel.com]

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Meisel, Hubi - Kailash
Lion Music
(2006)

German prog metal musician/composer, Hubi Meisel, returns with a superb new epic album based on his research and story about Tibet, and its mysticism of Kailash (in the Himalayan chains). As he accomplished his concept story of Atlantis ocean and Greek mythology injected on excellent previous album EmOcean, once again Hubi Meisel has successfully completed another prog metal concept album with totally different approach. As I mentioned above, his triumphant third solo album, Kailash, is the story taken place in Tibetan region. In addition, Hubi unfolds the story in the beginning of new album that the protagonist, who is from Europe, travels in Himalayan region with mystical figure/holy animal, Snow Lion to experience emotional jet-coster ride and reach something he would have never expected....some kind of holy grails. If you are really curious about the storyline and concept about Kailash, I highly suggest that you'd better take a look at his official website to understand the details and his lyrics. I really respect Hubi has taken great amounts of efforts to put everything together storywise and musicwise to finish up creating dramatic epic world on Kailash.

Okay, having said about story and background of Kailash, let's dive into the music in general. Once again, Hubi has been collaborating with excellently quality musicians, such as Vivien Lalu of Shadrane/Lalu (keys), Marcel Coenen of Sun Caged (guitars), Daniel Flores of Mind's Eye (drums), and Johan Niemann of Mind's Eye/Therion (bass) to put their own energies together. In addition, the guitarist of Mago De Oz on some songs and Joop Wolters performing brilliant guitar soloing on two European bonus tracks have joined the force of Hubi Meisel to support fully. Musically and performance wise, Kailash is as excellent as his previous EmOcean album to my ears. Additionally, I am quite happy to find out Vivien Lalu stands out in front; I believe the keyboard departments and blistering keyboard solos have been featured more than last album. If you are new to his name, please pay attention to his group works/projects in the future. Of course, not only does Vivien sound fantastic, but also do all musicians perform confidently and contribute their efforts 100%. Exp., the helps from Marcel Coenen and the rhythm section of Mind's Eye are always brilliant even outside of their own main projects. They always offer top-notch musicianship and great instrumental works, just mind you.

Stylistically, Kailash has some similariites to EmOcean, e.g., prog metal bombastic parts and complex instrumental sections with dynamic soundscapes. Nevertheless, some Asian exotic atmospheres and different approach are mixed together with Hubi's pleasant vocal works. Yeah, Hubi's voices and singing are really good in shape throughout the album. I hardly find any occasional aggressive parts of his unlike his Dreamscape days. In my opinion, Hubi has great confidence for his performance without leaning powerfulness and agressive parts. Obviously, his voice is the focal point to drive the music and lyrics mainly. I sincerely congratulate to Hubi's vocal phrasings to express passion, agony, tranquility, and positivity.

I have been totally impressed with his newest works. It might require you to absorb all things going on with background information, such as history of Tibet, Buddhism, and political climate of Himalayan region. However, it's worthwhile to take sevaral spins, because I think it treats tremendously :) Yes, overall Kailash is superbly fantastic; I have no complaints about production and quality ensembles. Each song on the album has dynamic parts and great solos from both guitar and keyboard players with Hubi's melodic vocal works to unfold the story. Although it is totally different story from EmOcean, sonically Kailash gives you a great satisfaction as much as EmOcean provides. Highly recommended for fans of prog metal in general.

[official website: http://www.hubimeisel.com/]

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Memorized Dreams - Theater of Life
Sound Riot Records
(2004)

By courtesy of Sound Riot Records, I get to know a few fine Melodic Power Metal bands. One of them is Memorized Dreams from Norway. Norway has good reputations about quality musicians and bands like Pagan's Mind, TNT, Trivial Act, and so forth. Although Sound Riot Records from Portugual is relatively a new comer to the scene of metal, they have signed with young promising melodic metal acts including Memorized Dreams. I think Sound Riot Records has been doing really good jobs for their promotions. Hopefully, their good attitude toward metal scene will affect good way.

Ok, let's investigate how Memorized Dreams sounds like. Stylistically, Memorized Dreams plays European style melodic metal with some contemporary influences and traditional metal elements together. I find some similarities of contemporary Euro metal like Stratovarius and Sonata Arctica, while listening to the three songs in the beginning. Later on, I find the enjoyments on second half of Theater of Life. I definately prefer the second half of this album that comes to mind a few other progressive power metal bands, because those songs show some challenging arrangements and interesting melody and tempo movements. Basically, their musical direction is straight-forward punchy metal with symphonic keyboards and melodic piano parts, but adding a bit of some interesting twists and new dimension. It is interesting to notice that Olav Skei of Divided Multitude helped to record his drum sections for this album as well. Probably, this band appeals to the metal fans who enjoy some symphonic elements and straight-forward power metal style. Overall, this is good start for Memorized Dreams. It depends on what you like from their music, for your listener. In my stand point, prog metal fans would enjoy the second half of this album, although power metal fans love faster and traditional songs.
[website: http://www.memorized-dreams.tk/]

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Mercury Rising - Building Rome
Dominion Records
(1998)

This band also offers combining calm moments and hot/burning ensembles led by twin guitars and complex pounding rhythms. Lyrics somehow are related to philosophy, religion, and modern society things. At first spin, it is not that easy for me to catch the vocal melody lines, but it is getting growing on me. My favorite tracks are "Cathedral", "Think", "The Occurence of Tomorrow", "Of Lesser Mens", and some tracks. Stylistically, they combined the music elements of Fates Warning's calmness and energetic moments besides somewhat Dream Theater-ish ensembles. I am not good at analyzing odd-timing and time-changes, but I can feel and sence some odd-meters and changing-shifts. Mercury Rising's style is somewhat tasty. I have already been spinning this cd for four times. It gets growing better and better to me. But I guss "Building Rome" album is not for the fans who are not keen to Fates Warning's style I guess.

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Metal Church - Hanging In The Balance
Blackhearts Records

Well, just recently I am kind in the mood of listening to American Power Metal. Since last week, I concentrate on listening to Metal Church's "Hanging In The Balance" album. Hanging In The Balance is pretty good album. I might not say that this album is excellent, but this album indeed rocks. Perhaps, I still prefer "Blessing In Disguise" and "The Human Factor" albums in their songwriting department better than "Hanging In The Balance". After listening to this album for a few times, Hanging In The Balance slowly grows on me. When this album was released in 1993 back then, they already left major label (Epic Sony, if I am correct). In the begining of my listening session for this cd, this cd did not convince me enough as their previous albums. A bit toned down, but Metal Church still kept enough power and heaviness on this album. Even though I have not been listning to many powerful oriented metal for these years, but I find myself still enjoy quality power metal like Metal Church. I guess I still have some kind of heart adoring pure powerful metal. A few tunes from Hanging In The Balance have good amounts of "New Wave of British Heavy Metal" speed, Judas Priest-style heaviness, and Metallica-eque sharpness with some trademarks of Kirk Vanderhoof's Metal Church-ness metallic, yet accessible elements (as you know that Kirk Vanderhoof is a founder member of METAL CHURCH for Metal Church fans). They also injected some nice acoustic, and clean guitar parts on "Lovers And Madmen" reminding me a bit of Metallica's Fade to Black introduction. Well, I am not very confident of writing and commenting Metal Church's Hanging In The Balance. It can not be said that it is superb, but some sort of metallic and power elements from Metal Church still appeal to many metal fans I assume.

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Metal Majesty - This Is Not A Drill
Lion Music
(2004)

Melodic Metal opus created by a well-known Netherland rock artist, Valensia, and his brother. This is my first time to check out Valensia's related music work. I think Metal Majesty concentrates on creating lush and big production reminding me of Queen, yet Valensia added bombastic elements and really lush keyboards/orchestration with heavy guitar sounds and hard driving approach on this album. From the beginning to the end, Metal Majesty's This Is Not A Drill features various epic songs, symphonic bombasts, and sweep keyboards and driving rock energy. What mostly I was astonished is Valensia performs all instruments, except for drum parts by his brother. I think this cd and Valensia's music in general may appeal to the fans of Queen and Freddie Mercury. Especially, Valensia have studied Freddie Mercury's vocal tones, phrases, and intonation very well. So, his vocal performance sometimes resembles the voice of Mr. Freddie Mercury big time. I never heard anybody sounds like Freddie Mercury completly, but Valensia. He does quite close to Freddie's calibre. That is amazing. Ok now, I have to say my impressions about this album. Mmmm...it is hard to say, but I am afraid to say that I do not get into this one very much. I respect Valensia's great efforts to bring Queen-like lush and big production. Maybe, I have problem with guitar sounds and playing on this album. I prefer their melodic tunes with less guitar shreds and heavy sounds. But please do not get me wrong. I like the music of QUEEN a lot. I think Valensia is a very talented musician and composer who studied Queen-like multi vocal harmonies and lush arrangement in detail. Well, I tried to enjoy this one at first so hard. But I could not. Probably, I had better try Valensia's other works. In fact, I was very impressed with great works on his work like Gaia. I think I respect his another great music endeavor like Gaia (btw, which is not included on This Is Not A Drill, though). Unfortunately, I could not enjoy This Is No A Drill entirely like others this time. Threfore, no pun-intended. Please understand why I feel this way, after listening to this cd.

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Metheny, Pat Group - The Way Up
Nonesuch Records/Warner Brothers Group
(2005)

I do not think you need an introduction about one of most revered contemporary jazz/fusion guitar player's band. Many people would consider this is one of best works by Pat Metheny Group. The cd of The Way Up can be categorized under the file of symphonic jazz/fusion or progressive contemporary jazz, if I am darely allowed to say it. This is one long beautiful composition with lots of things going on and great jazz instrumentations. The core members of the group show great solo spots and telepathetic interplays. Big nice flowing on PMG's new album. I do not recommend that people do not usually have fun with jazz/fusion. Open-minded music listeners would find something great enjoyment from this cd. As I listen to 'The Way Up' cd, this fine musical compotion (or you'd say compotions) gives new breeze and enthralling moments. Simply, I would say this is a master work by the veteran jazz/fusion musicians of PMG. If you have never heard of the music from Pat Metheny Group or jazz/fusion music, it could be a best place to get started for your enjoyment. By the way, the live performance of Pat Metheny Group is one of the best concerts I've ever seen in my life.

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Millenium - Hourglass
Frontiers Records

Woa, this is absolutelly fantastic AOR/Melodic Hard rock style music. Obviously, Ralf Santola is really talented guitar player and song writer. I could see the names like Don Airey (ex.Rainbow) and Doug Stokke (ex.supporting member of TNT) who did fabulous keyboard works. If you are into Melodic Hard Rock styles, do not miss this band. I tend to be fascinated by their middium tempo tunes, such as "Hourglass". Thanks to Trung for this great offering!!

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Mind's Eye - A Gentleman's Hurricane
Lion Music
(2007)

Finally I've got a chance to check out the entire album of 'A Gentleman's Hurricane' by this Swedish sensational progressive rock/metal group Mind's Eye. Am I only the one thinking that Mind's Eye make a much better sounding new album each time than their excellent previous works? It's one of my most anticipated albums in 2007, but my wait is totally over. I am really floored by this excellent new album. If my memory serves correctly, this is their 2nd ambitious concept album. The atmosphere of this album is obviously darker and heavier than previous album 'Walking on H2O', due to its conceptual nature. The central figure/protagonist of new album is the man whose profession is a killer/assassin that seems to have been involved with a famous secret society 'The Illuminati'. This man obviously suffers from his guilts and the sins he's got involved. The story starts revealed in his confession sessions, while his new friend and Catholic pastor as a listener. I'm still not able to figure out the big story laid down by them, but it's actually fun to delve into the concept and hidden meaning behind the story in details. It's quite amazing to see that how this talented Swedish group can put many different pieces together to make a whole new world of cinematic prog music that push the limits. Daniel Flores and Mind's Eye have carefully constructed this brilliant sounds and lyrics with dynamic instrumentations. In addition, the soundproduction of new album is also immaculately SUPERB in my honest opinion. I believe this album would bring them a higher ground in the scene of modern progressive metal music. Their songwriting ability is quite amazing without any doubt. As for Mind's Eye's music, the lyrics of theirs have always been very important to read and undestand what they are showcasing in the album, since I got to know their music on their second album, 'Waiting for the Tide' that holds a special place in my heart. Again, the storyline and concept in this latest album of Mind's Eye are quite fascinating (esp., if you are concerned about world history and some unsolved incidents like the assassination of JFK for instance), so you need to pay attention to lyrics and theme as well as their intricate interplays and bombastic ensembles. Three musicians of Mind's Eye are always fantastic to pull off their emotional and powerful performance with very intricate manner, yet all songs sound very memorable and approacheable. Probably, this is their best works they have done so far. Totally impressed with this new album. Thanks a lot for a super hard work from Mind's Eye. This Swedish group is an unstoppable force to make a great music. Highest recommendation. If you are very new or never heard their music before, it's the best time to check it out. Just click the banner below to visit and taste their imaginative and cinematic prog metal music. I am sure it's definitely worthwhile for you listener. :-)

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Mind's Eye - A Work of Art
Rising Sun
(2002)

A Work of Art is third and latest album from Swedish talented prog metal band, Mind's Eye. Every time they release new album, they offer something different from previous works. While listening to the whole cd, it quickly reaches my comfort zone. They never make same album over and over again, that is their strong point on the music department. As you see that, they are always concern for making music driven by catchy melodies, some twisted & turning spiced ensembles, and well thought-provoking lyrics. Since Andreas Novak joined the band as a new emotional driving force on Waiting for The Tidealbum (btw, which I consider the classic melodic prog metal work), Mind's Eye has been getting tighter and cohesive musical entity ever, esp., on this new album. After listening to the cd all the way through, I come to realize that A Work of Art seems to be different from their previous works. A Work of Art put emphasis on calmer and soothing sounds than complexities and technical prowess. If I describe this music on the album in a short word, I would say it is very poetic or kind of beatiful landscape spreading out in my mindscape. If I describe in colors, it would be like bluewith some cloudy white and sun rays. Lyrics and music put together to paint the musical picture: Sorrow, Love, Hopefulness, and such emotions flowing inside the music. In paricular, sound effects help to dramatize the music very well (for example, baby's talking, noise from clock, ambulance, the sounds of car passing by, etc.). Acoustic piano sounds & symphonic prog rock-ish keyboards are also used as embelishments and nice effects reminding me of Genesis, Marillion, Queen, and Yes in some moments. Guest female vocalist has been also featured, too. Musically, they are mixing, and cooking some melodic neo-progressive sounds, Scandinavian melodic AOR essence with catchy moments, and having prog metal lite elements they has been keeping since the days of Afterglow and first album (Into The Unknown). They are trying new things to make A Work of Art very interesting. This one is kind of melodic and song-oriented album rather than hyper chops packed album. Probably, their latest album has big potentials to appeal many diverse musical listeners who enjoy music filled with nice chorus. Surprisingly, they seem to minimize technical parts or complex parts. Some people might miss the complex style which was everywhere on their previous two albums. However, do not feel so sad about it. There are quite exciting ensembles and tighter parts on "Courage Within", "The Shape of Salvation", and "Hands of Time". Andreas Novak's vocal has been performing comfortably with emotions. Johan Niemann supports the bottom line with nice bass phrasing. Fredrik Grunberger's guitar playing is highly expressive and one of focal point. Daniel Flore handles various tasks ever on the album, anyway his main drumming parts and keyboard tasks are important foundations to paint music colors. Simply, their musicianship is apparently high on the department of songwriting and performing, moreover the way they approach on the album is very different from previous albums filled with technical chops and complexities. A Work of Art must be a new step departing from prog metal style to something different & new direction. I would put this style on the cd into the league of modern neo-progressive rock with harder edge and colorful sounds. Amazingly, beatiful and catchy elements has been shown with calmer atmospheres and great melody lines expressively. They seem to head for song-oriented approach rather than concentrating on technical approach to satisfy the fans who are only concern for technicality and complexity. Conglatulation to great works of MIND'S EYE. Every time I listen to the album of MIND'S EYE, the more I am drawn to their emotions and beauties on their music. That is what they call snapshots of their feeling and thoughts put onto the each album. Highly Recommended album to everyone who likes melodic neo-progressive sounds, such as Enchant, Rush, Queen, and Yes (oh and also fans of Dream Theater, too..hehe). One of my top 10 list in 2002.

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Mind's Eye-Waiting For The Tide
Round Records
(2000)

The music of Mind's Eye is totally amazing to me, at least. Definately, Waiting For The Tide is one of masterpieces of my favorite PROGRESSIVE METAL music. After I read astonishing reviews everywhere on the net, I have come to realize purchasing of Mind's Eye is totally correct. BEST BUY in this year!! after Woa, Waiting For The Tide is absolutely entertaining and food for the thought!! Another manifestation of great prog metal band hailing from Sweden. If you are into Swedish Progressive/Power genre like Tad Morose, Conception, Trivial Act, Heads Or Tails, why do not you try out this talented band called Mind's Eye. To me, each song contains interesting message to the world and human being. Booklet inside contains nice pictures with lyrics' note. Sound producion of this cd is relatively great to me. I like the message written on the lyrics note of Frozen Tears, "Don't Give Up The Hope"!! It is very convincing and great music packed in the cd. Each prog metal tune is shining with bombastic progressive ensembles. Definately, musicianship of this band is pretty high and astonishing. Most songs consist of kind of mid-paced and up-tempos (sorry for guys who are crazy for full-speed in high gear power metal) with memorable melodies and soaring and tasty vocal lines and chorus. I feel that Mind's Eye successfully blend progressive rock elements of Pink Floyd, Marillion, and Arena, prog metal elements like Dream Theater, Queensryche, and Fates Warning, and soundscape-esque moments deliciously and intelligent way with full of nice melodies in ther Mind's Eye way. Even I feel some jazz/fusiony tastes in their music. In particular, Calling (Father To Son) reminds me of a bit of the light fusiony moments from Brett Garsed And T.J.Helmerich. Don't get me wrong, Mind's Eye definately has their identity and original style in the music.  I hope Mind's Eye will find new bassist in the future. Overall, this cd hit scores like A!! They have done very very good job from my point of view :o)

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Mind's Eye - Walking on H20
Lion Music
(2006)

Walking on H2O is the fourth full-length album of Swedish prog metal/rock band, Mind's Eye. As you see that Mind's Eye have been constantly working very hard to make incredible albums every time, since they got started. In recent years, each member of the band has also working with various rock and progressive projects and groups like Tears of Anger, XsavioR, Hubi Meisel, Faro, Speedy Gonzales, and so on to name just a few, besides the activities of Mind's Eye. Of course, their other side-projects also sound really intriguing and great ones as well, if you are interested about their other musical works. I strongly believe that their contributions for other groups and projects are really helpful for the musicians in the Scandinavian areas, and also entire European regions. Through various projects and musical works, they have gained lots of confidence and maturities in every area of music composing and performance wise.

Okay, now let's dive into the album of Walking on H2O, shall we? Their last album, A Work of Art, has been one of their turning-point albums for them, due to less intricate ensembles and more into song-oriented progressive rock album with strong melodic emphasis gaining lots of new fans all over the world. I wondered how new album woud sound like with curiosity, since their music captured a special place in my heart. After having listened to the album entirely for more than several times, I came to the conclusion that they have extended the approach of A Work of Art with more strong messages and themes reflected on entire album with dynamic sounds, solid performance and great production.

What this album sets apart from their previous albums is that they took the approach of concept story into it. Yes, Walking on H2O is a basically conept album based on human history and evolution according to Charles Darwin's theories. Not only do include such themes, but also do contain the themes of how people feel and go through about various topics, and our related subjects like drag addiction, historical mysteries, natures, emotions between man and woman, and so forth. Walking on H2O is the album that successfully connect the lyrics and music cohesively, so you can not separate these parts. Yes, Mind's Eye made it again for a really superb new album, indeed :-) Obviously, they are focused on making good music and hooky melodies over technical and intricate showy performance. Additionally, the dramaticism (is this word exsisting or what?) has been tremendously increased more than any other album. In other words, the production works improved quite a lot to sound really huge and dynamic. Due to updating recording devices and studio processes, Walking on H2O sounds really massive and very powerful without leaning too much loud guitars and irrelevant big volumes.

Sadly, Fredrik Grunberger, who perfomed fluid solos and amazing guitar works until last album, has already left the band, due to staying and working as a business man in London. Therefore, the formation of Mind's Eye has been forced to become a trio style. However, each member of the band helps and contributes pretty intensely, so I do not feel any void or holes of what Fredrik would have done for guitar parts. In particular, the contribution of Daniel Flores' multi-talented efforts (such as, drummer/keyboardist/composer/lyricist/engineering) is really superb in both sides of music performance and compositions. He does not only offer really fantastic drumming works, but also provides keyboard works and complex string arrangements as well as his thought-provoking beautiful lyrics. Indeed, the lyrics of each song has moved me quite a lot every time with very strong performance. The bass player, Johan Niemann, has also worked superbly hard to fill the guitar parts of what Fredrik would have performed. Johan Nieman's guitar works are amazingly excellent as his bass performance that make all listeners feeling awed. The dramaticism created by layered guitar sounds and tastly solos has been increased effectively. At last, but not least, Andreas Novak proves his excellent vocal prowess, and pulls off his passionate singing style. He conveys really powerful emotions to move all listeners as well. His performance on the album receives many praises from new fans.

Personally, I would expect the extension of their complex-oriented 2nd album, Waiting for the Tide, but they took a whole different step further. The latest album is focused on good songwriting and hook-laden melodies for ordinary listeners to get into. Every song has its own charm and elegant grace. Mind's Eye push the limit to make improvement of production and engineering. According to Mr. Daniel Flores, he takes the approach of cinematic scope or score-music to visualize the sounds. Indeed, the arrangements of strings and compositions are the most dynamic and complex he has ever tried I believe. Additionally, the sound effects like human dialogues, monologues, and footages increase the sensibility of drama. For instance, the introduction of Earth: The Movie with JFK's famous speech about Apolo space exploration, the second track 'A Rabbit in the Hat' with the footage of 'Landing Man on the Moon', plus Buzz Adring's interview, and 'Poseidon Says' with the weather report on TV with a cancer man's monologue, are quite effective to intrigue listeners. Esp., the songs like 'A Rabbit in the Hat' and 'The Nazca Lines' give me a chance to think twice and reflect upon seriously on what we have perceived, experienced and learned.

The flow of each song on the album has been very smooth entirely. Each song segues into next song cohesively. Moreover, all songs contain excellent melodies, and song-arrangment has been well-made by the band. You can enjoy all aspects of the music offered here in detail. I wish they would have increased more intricate sections and complexity like 1st album or 2nd album in some songs, but you find the complex pieces like 'Flight of The An.Unna.Ki', and powerful 'Poseidon Says' to entertain your progressive and complex ears. Successfully, they offer fascinating vocal melodies and musically friendly compostions to appeal to all music fans. Walking on H2O has a really good appeal to the fans like Rush, Enchant, A.C.T., ELO, and Dream Theater. Amazingly, most polished sounding music they have ever made. Among Mind's Eye fans, I am guessing Walking on H2O has been considered as one of best accomplishments from Mind's Eye. Btw, a Japanese edition of this latest album only contains the cover song of Prince, 'Sign o' the Times'. I would feel like this one sounds almost Mind's Eye's original track, due to the trademark sounds by Mind's Eye rhythm and colors. I think it's getting quite solid and catchy to hear. If you are curious about a Japanese edition, go and check out somewhere else.

In conclusion, the new album of Mind's Eye is another big winner for their impressive music career once again. I was really surprised to see that they took song-oriented melodic approach once again rather than technical approach like 1st and 2nd albums, but this one sounds very different from a previous album. Thanks to the members of Mind's Eyes for creating such a great masterpiece of Walking on H2O with tremendous energy and super hard work. Walking on H2O proves that this is the new century's dramatic and cinematic hard prog music with elegant grace and passions. Each time I listen to this album, the more I find new enjoyment and discoveries with lyrics and sounds. All melodic music fans should pay attention to this finest album released in 2006 so far. The fans of Mind's Eye, XsavioR, Tears of Anger, and Novak should take a chance to grab this new album. Highly recommended album for the fans of hard prog and melodic prog metal music.

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Miosis - 4 track e.p.
Independent Release
(2007)

As you see that Swedish acts have been producing world-class progressive music since long time ago, I think open-minded prog music listeners need to take a look at another talented young group called Miosis from Sweden. Miosis consists of five enthusiastically energetic musicians that create and perform somehow meditative and thought-provoking progressive metal music. Stylistically, their music on this 4 track e.p. does not sound dissimilar to the contemporary acts like Tool and Radiohead. At the same time, they put the emphasis on the somber and melancholic songwriting approach over technical-oriented prog music. Additionally, their heavier and atmospheric parts remind me of later days' Psychotic Waltz and Canadian prog metal group, Chromatic Shades. The vocalist Torin Williams sings within his comfortable vocal ranges; and his main role is to bring emotional phrases and pour out his passions through somewhat poetic and philosophical inner thoughts for every music listener who can get into the music of Miosis. Mattias Axelsson's drum works sound really subtle, yet intelligently balance out dynamics and intricate beats (I think the combination of his works between cymbals and drum skins is quite nice, thanks for his works). Two guitar players of this band have their own roles to maintain the grooves and rhythmic parts. In the case of Marten Bergkvist; he does not only handle guitars, but also perform and tweaking (maybe?) electronics that are used quite effectively in their music. I suppose another guitarist Erik Skoglund might be leading the guitar parts in some sections; his phrasings and lead parts are very dynamic and powerful to lead the music from calmer parts to quite heavier realms. Bass player Mikael Mangs Edwardsson supports and lays down his low tones and quite soothing bottom sounds as well. Each song of this E.P. has really guitar-oriented progressive metal tones with intelligent arrangements that never disappoints the listener who is into the bands I have mentioned above. Although they do not focus on performing super complex and meticulously mathmatical prog metal music like Spiral Architect and Trivial Act, Miosis knows when they are getting tighter in powerful tracks, and getting laid back with soothing and meditative moments. On this four track E.P., Miosis strongly prove that they are an up-coming great progressive metal newcomer. Their music has really nice moments in both songwriting and instrumentation. I am very impressed with this kind of great energy and passionate moments from their original music. If you are curious how they sound like, just go to their Myspace as soon as possible. :-)
http://www.myspace.com/miosisband

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Missa Mercuria - s/t
Generation Records
(2002)

The cd of Missa Mercuria is kind of my blind purchase, because Gunter Werno, Stefan Lill and a few other my farovite musicians contributed this project. It is really beautifully well-made prog metal rock opera. I usually do not jump into rock opera type album, except for Ayreon, Savatage, and few other discs. Obviously, some music are kind of similar to Vanden Plas. I start getting into this one. This one is really nice one for my ears musically. Well, I do not agree with all concept and story lines completely, though....

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Missing Tide - Follow The Dreamer
Lion Music
(2009)

Danish hard rock/metal group Missing Tide's debut album gives me a refreshing listening experience. The art cover of this cd looks a bit scary and it seems a horror-morie derived idea; but it has nothing to do with extreme or avant-garde type music at all. The band features elite European musicians who used to be the members of Royal Hunt (Henrik Brockmann/Jacob Kjaer) as well as the former member of Pretty Maids and the e.x. member of Evil Masquerade. The album of 'Follow The Dreamer' has a nice selection of 11 song-oriented tracks with strong verse-chorus style heavy rock and metal edge. Even though the band Missing Tide sounds like a new comer from Denmark, all members of the band mentioned above have quite impressive instrumental skills. Stylistically, the approach of Missing Tide is a bit similar to Royal Hunt due to the production work of Jacob Kjaer and energetic vocal performance of Henrik Brockmann. I do not follow update information about Royal Hunt in daily basis, so I have no idea about when and why the former members of Royal Hunt left. Nevertheless, do not expect anything like Royal Hunt part 2 or their similar works like the 'Paradox' album. I would say some songs from 'Follow The Dreamer' cd sound a kind of stripped down version of early Royal Hunt, but rather most numbers on this new album have some vibes and powerfulness of what quality melodic hard rock group, such as Pretty Maids, Pink Cream 69, Faro, and XYZ would create. Unlike Royal Hunt, this group does not have dominant tones of synthesizers nor keyboard roles. Instead, the keyboard sounds are subtle and minimumly used for the backdrop to enhance for some songs that being needed at glance. Yeah, the song structure of their first album is very solid and cohesive. Each song is very straightforward, yet highly approacheable for anyone and quite catchy and melodic as well. Overall, the combination of all musicians is really powerful and really interesting enough. While listeninging to this cd, the guitar performance of Jacob Kjaer sounds just outstanding and brilliant. The guitar fans need to be aware of the way he handles the guitar playing and extraordinary expression through the instrumental section in each song; Jacob Kjaer might have been an unsung guitar hero, but he deserves attention in my thoughts. Definitely, the album of Follow The Dreamer by Missing Tide is highly recommended for someone who gets into general Danish hard rock and metal scene. It's also recommendable for the one who likes quality melodic rock with European sounds and the power of metal with a great production work. Very good job they've accomplished, so I really like this album quite a lot.

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Mister Kite - All In Time
Lion Music
(2002)

Honestly, I enjoy listening to this cd a lot. Well, some people like this band's music quite a lot, but not others. Again, this talented band is also from Sweden (what is in the water out there??). Melodic, catchy, and nice song-oriented approach with contemporary and modern elements are evident to my ears. All In Time has several tasty tunes. If you enjoy the music of Mind's Eye, Threshold, and such contemporary progressive rock/metal band, you should never pass out this band's cd. Sound production on this cd is really crisp and warm. Man, this band is awesome and very enjoyable for all melodic rock and song-oriented approach prog metal band. A guest guitarist, Mattias IA Eklund, must be a guitarist version of Jens Johansson in the term of unique playing approach. Christer Hermodsson's keyboard playing is nice, too. Probably, I might include this band's cd in my top 20 list of 2002. Interesting gem.

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Mister Kite - Box of Fear
Lion Music
(2004)

In 2002, Mister Kite's first album, "All In Time", had generated big buzz in both melodic metal and prog metal scenes respectively. As I reviewed All In Time previously on my website, I also enjoyed their unique sounds and great instrumentation with positive energy flowing on the entire music. Since then, Mister Kite's new album had been one of most anticipated releases in 2004. Fortunately, I received their new single called "The Hunger" featuring three songs as a teaser. Later on, I finally received their brandnew album, Box of Fear with great expectation. Ok, ready? I am going to investigate their new album closely.

First of all, I suggest that listeners had better not expect the music of "All In Time part 2." On Box of Fear, they are taking different musical directions. Somehow, I felt kind of positive energy flows from the music of previous album. It seems that Mister Kite pays attentions to dark side and fears of human beings. I also believe that the title of this album sums up the theme of fear. That is why the entire music has kind of comtemporary and heavier sounds than previous works.

However, do not be afraid too much on new sounds. What Mister Kite have created overall on this album has lots of hooks and memorable melody lines throughout the whole cd in my honest opinion. Probably, the main theme of this album let us look into the dark side of every person. Probably, their music approach on this album might be related to Masquerade's "Surface of Pain" or Superior's "Younique", because Mister Kite dare to include the sounds of modern and drum loops, etc. to make good projection. Overall, new elements blends well with their original sounds to entertain listeners who are going to check out this album.

Basically, the fans of Mister Kite would enjoy the entire tracks of Box of Fear. However, if you look for kind of proggy instrumentaion or some intricacies that Mister Kite is good at, then you might get difficulties to absorb the music. Box of Fear album focuses on song-oriented approach over complexity and intricate ensemble. Maybe, it is a good idea to put aside All In Time for a while. Just relax and concentrate on music with lyrics and themes about each track on Box of Fear. It is not prog metal, neither typical melodic hard rock, nor AOR. Box of Fear appeals to the fans who are open-minded toward any kind of changes and different music elements, such as alternative and nu-metal with comtemporary approach and new sounds like drum loop mixing with real drum sounds.

The production of Box of Fear is well-made, and ensemble is really tight as well as All In Time. That is for sure. Undoubtedly, their musicianship has been very tight and solid. My favorite tracks of this album are "How Long" and "I Know You Know", especially. Vocal melody lines are catchy, and guitar lines are very expressive. Indeed, at first I was very surprised that The Hunger sounded like kind of Alice In Chains and Pearl Jam style track, but I got used to like the heavieness and atmosphere. Indeed, it might take several listens to absorb the music for the first time until you get it. Due to the entire theme and concept of Box of Fear, you need to take time to digest the music and some changes. Overall, their second album is another winner.

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Mistheria - Messenger of the Gods
Lion Music
(2004)

As you know that Lion Music has been releasing the albums of various guitar-instrumental music, progressive metal, neo-classical, symphonic metal, and including contemporary/modern music quite a lot nowadays. Mistheria is the name of virtuoso keyboard player from Italy. You could say "Messengers of The Gods" is an epic concept album featuring tons of many different musicians from different regions, and mostly from Lion Music artists with the helps of relatively known and unknown musicians in the scene of melodic metal, neo-classical, and prog metal. Definately, the focal point of this album is keyboard playing by Mistheria himself. Yet, there are lots of guitar shreds and complex ensemble going on. This is not merely keyboard player's solo album, but it is more like collaborating works like Book of Reflections and other Lion Music special projects. On the first half of the cd concentrates on complex neo-classical/symphonic metal vein music. On the other half of the cd features Symphony X, Bob Kationis, and Artension-like bombastic symphonic prog metal stuffs. It is really fun to hear trade-off solos between guitars and keyboards. Personally, I really enjoy intense prog metal ensemble parts with dash of symphonic and neo-classical runs on the tracks, such as 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, and so forth. Musically and performance-wise, the musicians participating this project are definately brilliant enough to pull off complicated passages and jaw-dropping shred-fest. Nevertheless, a production on Messenger of the Gods is a bit on dry side. If the warmness added on this production, this album would have sounded more appealing to majority in the melodic metal circles. Overall, it seemed difficult project to accumlate into one whole musical product, but Mistheria did good job in his own capacity with his fellows' participation.

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Borislav Mitic - The Absolute
Lion Music
(2009)

If you are a big fan of technical neo-classical metal, you'll instantly recognize Serbia-born guitarist Borislav Mitic. He used to live in Serbia (which country used to be called Yugoslavia), but nowadays he resides in Montreal, Canada. Looking back in the late 1990's, he released his first international debut album ('Borislav Mitic') from Shrapnel Records. His self-titled instrumental album received a great recognition and favorable feedback from instrumental fans. It's been a long while, since his highly praised previous album was out. Borislav had never given up his hope and future possibilities until the next move. Many guitar freaks who are into neo-classical guitar must have been anticipating a new release of Borislav for a long time. His latest guitar instrumental album ('The Absolute') was finally released through Lion Music in the late December of 2009.

His latest instrumental album appears having tons of brilliant virtuostic guitar instrumentals in the vein of Yngwie Malmsteen, Vinnie Moore, Tony MacAlpine, Joey Taffola, Michael Harris, and Joe Stump to name just a few. Please do not make a quick conclusion that Borislav Mitic is a typical follower of excellent neo-classical guitarists mentioned in a previous sentence. The new album also adds heavy edge and slight crunchy sounds in the style of new century generated by his recent guitar rigs and amplifications; his main focus is definitely superb guitar instrumental performance by his fingerings. Of course, the complex fingerings and picking techniques are very clean and astonishingly precise. Additionally, he injects his exotic melodic phrasings and extraordinaire sheer energies. His famous blistering shred guitar solos totally blow away every neo-classical guitar playing fan.

We tend to concentrate on hearing his solo works, but the music structure itself on the new cd is catchy and straightforward. The focus of 'The Absolute' is good song writing and unique music sensibilies. New album features several immediate punches and different uptempo tracks with dramatic guitar solos of Borislav, whereas it also contains East-European classical influences and mid-tempo numbers with a slight touch of medieval atmosphere. In particular, faster tempo instrumentals including the title track "The Absolute" are very uplifting and listening pleasure. It almost sounds a group performance, but surprisingly Borislav handles and plays all instruments. The Absolute album is styliscitally guitar-oriented technical neo-classical metal, but there have no keyboard sounds included. If keyboards and synth sounds had added, this album would have sounded much more fuller. I assume that he put the emphasis on a slightly heavier sounds rather than typical epic symphonic neo-classical sounds. That is why he did not include keyboard sounds nor feature symphonic elements at all. I do not know whether the drum machines or real drum kits have been used, but the percussive sections and drums are produced good enough to my ears. Overall, Borislav Mitic has managed to balance heavier sounds of powerful metal and exotic neo-classical guitar instrumentaions. Highly recommended for the fans of technical neo-classical guitar chops and Shrapnel school musicians in late 1980's.

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Moonlight Comedy - The Life Inside
Lion Music
(2004)

'The Life Inside' is a fantastic debut album from Italian acts, Moonlight Comedy. Yes, stylistically, Moonlight Comedy showcases bombastic and powerful Italian prog metal with elegant touch and some complexities. Their sound and performance remind me of a cross between Dreamscape and Madsword. From the beginning to the end, this band concentrate on performing really tight and heavy in prog metal manner. As other Italian prog metal do, Moonlight Comedy also put some symphonic metal influences like Secret Sphere on the powerful prog metal ensemble that is quite approacheable and very nice to the ears. Even though this is their first full-length debut album, what they have achieved here is really astonishing and quite surprising. Definitely, melodic and dramatic prog metal fans would be into the style and sounds of The Life Inside. Really good job done!! I have really enjoyed this album quite a lot. Keep up the good work, Moonlight Comedy.

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Moon of Steel - Beyond The Edges
Adrenaline Records
(1999)

Do you remember the tribute album called "Voices: A Tribute to Dream Theater" released by Adrenaline Records some years ago? I am really impressed with energetic and powerful cover tunes of Dream Theater by young prog metal hopes a la Empty Tremor, Overlife, and others that participated on that album. One of highlights for me was that Italian prog rocker, Moon of Steel featuring female vocalist did their version of "You Not Me". According to some Italian Metal experts, Moon of Steel is known as one of Italian prog metal pioneer that has been playing music since 1989 (I think). However, they were not active for most several years during 90s. Fortunately, they found a new female vocalist, Sarah Bonetti, and continue making new music. Ok, let's investigate Moon of Steel - Beyond The Edges a bit. Through net-surfing on several prog metal oriented websites, their recent works seems interesting. Henceforce, finally I grabbed my copy of Moon of Steel e.p. just recently. Moon of Steel e.p. features four melodic tracks (track time: within 17 to 20 minutes). Overall, I do not find many similarities between them and Dream Theater from original tunes. Their three original tunes are melodic, yet etherial eclectic prog metal and atmospheric style. Their cover version of "You Not Me" by Dream Theater is also featured as a third track with their arrangement. To me, the first melodic and well-thought out tune "Did You Hear That Voice?" is really outstanding and shining. If they keep making the tracks like "Did You Hear That Voice?", their new album will be a brilliant. Well, they already released new album in 2002, so I need to check out their music. Interesting band!!

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Mosher, Scott - Deep Horizons
Independent Release
(2006)

U.S. ambitious independent prog metaller Scott Mosher has returned with his triumphant fourth release 'Deep Horizons' As some of you might already know that, Scott Moshter has been enthusiastically releasing his cyber-sonic neo prog music with his honest attitudes and keen musical sense for many years to been capturing many listeners who enjoy diggin the new sound from undergound and indies scene. Probably, I'd say that I'm one of those people who is quite happy to find his music by accident. Since I got to know his second album 'Virtuality', I've come to realize that his musical endeavors are gradually appealing to many different prog and metal fans including someone who is into both Rush and Ayreon.

If you look for the sounds of 'cyber metal' or 'synth-laden metal', you mostly stumble on the industrial metal or modern techno-laden kind music. I do not say those kind of music is mediocrite or not enjoyable, however I do not usually get satisfied with the music along with the word of cyber or synth-featured metal, due to lack of diverse musical soundscapes in my own term. In the case of Mr. Mosher, what he's been exploring in his album successfully could touch upon my tastes somehow. Although I have mentioned more than a few times, his second album 'Virtuality' has such fascinating soundscape and heavier edge of prog metal. His previous album has also such magnificent sound approach and harder guitar sounds featured.

Now, let's take a look at his latest album, 'Deep Horizons' this time. At glance, you find a new singer, Scott Oliva, featured on vocal-oriented tracks. The previous singer did really find job on Mosher's past works. On the other hand, Scott Oliva has also really powerful and soaring voice to express freely on Scott Mosher's synth-laden, yet heavier prog metal sounds as well. I have no idea what's the reason behind the change of vocalists, but this is a really good move for Scott Mosher's music, esp., on this latest album. Along with vocal oriented tracks, the instrumental tunes are really fascinating as well. Unlike Inferno album, I find myself enjoying this musical endeavor from the beggining to the end, BIG TIME! I would say this is his best release so far. Probably, his second album is kind of different entity for me, so I might not say this surpass second album. However, if someone is curious about Scott Mosher's music for the first time, I definitely recommend that someone needs to get this album at first. Then, go back to Scott's previous works gradually.

I'm assuming that Scott must've been taking time to compose, arrange, perform, and put together everything with his most careful manner. It's neither too mind-boggling or complicated for the listeners. What he has achieved previously is absolutely still alive, yet he brings this baby into a new level with nice cyber sounds and slight complexity. I believe he has made a new progress every release. There are no weak spots or redundant parts at all. Every track has a quite nice moment on the album. Scott does not usually go irrelevant guitar shreds, yet he put really nice guitar solo spots with the guest musicians's tasty solo. Within several complex sections, there are shining guitar leads and memorable passages you could find easily. Like other previous album, there are tons of swirling synth leads and keyboard soundscapes. If you like neo-prog and symphonic rock like Rush and Ayreon, you'd get surprised how come this artist is not get exposed quite enough in the scene of prog. Anyway, I'm quite satisfied with this album for each listen. Congrats for this superb new album, Scott. Highly recommended for any prog and cyber-rock fans out there.

Info and Contacts:
[The Ambient Mind: http://www.theambientmind.com/]
[e-mail: ninja@mindspring.com]

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Scott Mosher - Inferno
Independent Release
(2004)

Inferno is the third album of U.S. guitarist/synth player, Scott Mosher. In 2001, I purchased his previous cd called 'Virtuality' from his place, and I got into the synthetic and powerfully driven neo-cyber metal music presented on that album. What Scott Mosher has established on his music is very unique and electronically driven powerful rock and metal music. Basically, the album of 'Inferno' follows the footsteps of what Scott has started in his music career. Okay, my first impression about Inferno was not as huge as what I heard from his previous album in my honest opinion. Some people might not agree with this, but I thought that Scott tried not to go over the top this time. Instead of making his music intricate, he rather stayed playing and composing his own materials more accessible and heavier. Of course, the sound production and all instrumentation handled by himself are peculiar and done very well without doubt. I can not explain this well, but some songs on 'Inferno' did not grab me instantly, nor blow me away as much as Virtually did. Probably, he's taking "less is better" approach than packing various things too much. That was my minor anxious why I could not get into this album as I did on Virtuality album, while listening to the cd in the beginning. Nevertheless, the music goes getting tighter and agressive enough to get me into the music played on Inferno. Esp., the middle part of cd gets fascinating, due to his intelligent arrangement and compositional skill. In addition, the most tracks on the second half of the cd are exciting enough. What I have been most impressed with Scott Mosher's works is the way of using synthesizers and crunchy guitar onslaughts. Primarily, he is a guitarist, but I enjoy the way he handles the keyboards with very nice synth tones and epic sound walls. Indeed, he is the master of creating lush synth soundscapes and atmospheric world. Overall, what he has done here is another great winner. Somewhat, people find the common denominators and similarities between Scott Mosher's works and Ayreon, or let me say Rush. Well, I understand their point, but Scott is not following what Ayreon or Rush has created. Scott has definitely his own sounds and style, so please do not worry about it. Strangely, some deep synth-drenched sounds remind me of a classic electric prog group, Tangerine Dream as well. As many people who are supporting independent prog metal know that Scott has been really working so hard for his music to get recognized. I also think his music needs to get support and recognized well in the near future. I hope he would continue being steady for making his unique atmospheric flavored cyber prog metal. If you have never tried out his music before, Inferno is a good start point to appreciate his music for someone who likes both crunchy heavy guitar sounds and atmospheric synthetic soundscapes.

Info and Contacts:
[The Ambient Mind: http://www.theambientmind.com/]
[e-mail: ninja@mindspring.com]

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Scott Mosher - Virtuality
Independent Release
(2001)

Scott Mosher's latest album, Virtuality, is one of interesting music offerings I have missed last year. But finally I grabbed this on my hands. Musically, Scott Mosher himself describes really well, such as "Cyber Rock, Neo-Progressive Ambient" like that. Honestly, I really agree with his description. On Virtuality, you find spacey sounds and massive futuristic synth sounds, which might have been created by KORG and up-to-date digital synthesizer with heavy guitar sounds. At glance, some tunes on this album appeals to the fans of AYREON and 80s era of RUSH. However, the way Scott Mosher created on Virtuality has original touch, so that you can totally enjoy this album as a different entity. Personally, quite enjoyable neo-prog cyber rock sounds are different from other neo-prog and prog metal contemporaries. It is noticeable that sound production is pretty good, even though it seems to be independent release. I assume that Scott Mosher takes many times to sound great as possible as he can. If you are the listener who is not able to accept other synthetic and ambient atmopsheres in prog rock and prog metal, you might have difficult time to enjoy this one. However, I really recommend this album for prog metal and neo-prog fans who are open-minded to different elements intertwined within the context of music. Nice and fresh atmopsheric sounds and heavy rocking guitars floating endlessly. More than half on this album contains spacey instruments, but each tune has explained with Scott Mosher's ethics, social issues, environmental topics, and philosophical themes on the booklet, so read carefully and enjoy the world of VIRTUALITY. On the other hand, some tunes featuring lead vocalist and instrumentalists give the vibes of RUSH with his interpretation to listeners. Lastly, and not least, I am totally impressed with that he doesn't only create music by himself, but also does illustrates and create the booklet and arts (pay attention to his nice workouts!!). From the beginning to the end on the album, there is no filler and boring moments in my opinion. Totally unexpected nice work from independent release. If you do not mind the sounds of cyber-edge, synthetic atmospheres, ambient feeling, and occasional trance states in heavy rock field, then I totally recommend each of you to check out his music. You will not get disappointed with his efforts. Well done job and highly recommended.
Info and Contacts:
[The Ambient Mind: http://www.theambientmind.com/]
[e-mail: ninja@mindspring.com]

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MSG - Live At Budohkan
Toshiba EMI
(1981)

One Night At Budokan is one of finest moments for Michael Schenker Group's entire history. Michael Schenker is kind of hard rock nomad. On this board, Yngwie Malmsteen is one of kind of well-discussed topics, whether good or bad. However, Micheal Schenker Group has not been discussed lately, so I bring up the topic. The reason why I like this album is that each guitar playing of Michael Schenker is sparkling and shining!! His guitar playing is really emotional and soulful. Each note strikes my heart. His guitar phrasings and tones are unbelievably wonderful, esp., on this album. In late 70s and early 80s, his guitar playings are undoubtedly nice. If you are melodic hard rock fand, and having never heard of the tune called INTO THE ARENA, you would miss something important. In today's standard, some tunes might be considred...dated and predictable (personally I do not feel so). However, there are some highlights. This live album captures the heydays of early Michael Schenker Group in 80s. Well, I do not say I am a big fan of Michael Schenker Group. But ONE NIGHT AT BUDOKAN features incredible Michael Schenker's killer guitar axe works, Cozy Powell's powerful, solid, and punchy drumming, and Paul Raymond's nice backing keyboard works (using some kind of bright harpshichord playings and tasty keyboard sounds). One of minor complaints from me is that between songs, Gary Barden (vocalist) interrupted too frequently. Thus, it kills flows I think. Gary might not be a superb vocalist, but he handles pretty good on this live album. Personally, live version of "Into The Arena" itself stands out..what a killer instrumental tune! 80s Hard Rock fans are delighted with this result of ONE NIGHT AT BUDOKAN. Perhaps, Into The Arena has a few fragrants of proggy moments. Most tunes are straight forward melodic hard rock, and a couple of gentle and fire-burning rock tunes. If you are a fan of early Michael Schenker and Cozy Powell's fabulous drumming, it is worthwhile to check out this album. I just revisited this album, but I did not imagine that I still keep this album. Man, INTO THE ARENA itself has still been a killer monumental melodic rock instrumental. Oh btw, if you are not familiar with BUDOKAN, Budokan is a kind of Japanese Martial Arts Arena usually used for traditional Japanese sports national tournament, such as Sumo, Kendo (Japanese fensing), Judo, and so on. Megadeth, Cheap Trick, Bon Jovi, Eric Clapton, and many legendary rock bands also performed over there in Tokyo, Japan

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Mullmuzzler - James LaBrie's Mullmuzzler 2
Magna Carta
(2001)

During late 1990's and early Y2K, Magna Carta released really brilliant prog metal albums from various places in the globe. Moreover, Magna Carta also got some helps to release some kind of Dream Theater related super projects and sort of solo albums as well. Mullmuzzler is the project of Dream Theater's lead singer James LaBrie. This one is his second album under the name of Mullmuzzler project featuring Trent Gardner of Magellan, Gary Wehrkemp of Shadow Gallery, Matt Guillory of Dali's Dilemma, Mike Keneally, and his friend's musicians. Obviously, some complex sections of his songs are kind of related to Dream Theater style. However, his intension of this album like first album 'Keep It To Yourself' is an emphasis on his thought-provokeness and emotional songs as singer. Due to backing musicians, there are quite impressive instrumentation and nice moments as well. It's not definitely a typical solo album that has not enough exiciting instrumental sections. More or less, James freely express his thoughts and emotions on this album again. The production is definitely first rate and very solid, so it appeals to various kind of listeners.

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Rolf Munkes - No More Obscurity
Lion Music
(2000)

Rolf Munkes is another rising guitar star from guitar-oriented label, Lions Music. As you see that Lion Music has slowly start signing interesting new guitarists and guitar-driven bands. As you listen to the music on No More Obscutiry by Rolf Munkes, his music gives the impression of melodic hard rock that slightly reminded me of Michael Schenker Group and Glenn Hughes on the surface. In addition, some tunes put the emphasis of bit complex and intricate touch. However, such elements do not interrupt accesibilities. What intrigues me about his album is that his music does not focus on instrumental-only mentality. Instead of emphasizing all instrumental tunes, he put some vocal oriented original tunes featuring Goetz F. Mohr mostly (who reminds me of Glenn Hughes vocal style) & Frank Hoefliger, and one Police cover song, "Message In A Bottle" sung by Balance of Power singer, Lance King. Admittingly, Rolf Munkes playes smoothly with confident and incredible guitar skills. What No More Obscurity sometimes interupted me to enjoy wholeheartedly is that a few tunes suffer from a bit of poor sound production and mixing. On the other hand, most of the time I do not have any problem with sound production because this is his self-produced album, so he did manage to make good sound possible. A few of tunes, like "YOU AND I", has really nice sound and production with heavy edge. Thus, if they had most songs on the same production level on such tunes, they would have done much better. With said that, I want to understand that Rolf and co. did his best in his allowed production, so I do not want to complain that much. Because his music and style in heavy rock direction infused with some variety musical ideas are good enough to enjoy so much on this. I hope that No More Obscurity is the first step to create another interesting works for him. In these days, I have not much time to encounter straight forward hard rock music. Rolf's music shows that melodic hard rock driven by incredible guitar playings have future. Good work.

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Mystelly Hall, The - The Voyager Through The Void
Lion Music
(2005)

This is the first debut album of Spanish Melodic ProgPower Metal band from Lion Music. I believe that this band has been recognized as sort of prog metal band. My impression about this band is more toward melodic power metal band with hints of prog metal energy. On the first half of cd, they maintain playing with straight-forward approach. Lots of good melodies are going on with strong emphasis on catchy vocal melodies and dynamic guitar sections. I have been very attracted by 7th, 8th, and 9th tunes respectively, because of more prog metal emphasis from those tunes. Overall, I feel that both guitarist Tony Baena and vocalist Rafael Morata have strong initiatives for this band's musical departments to lay down important sections and phrasings, so forth. Stylistically, they put the emphasis on melody over complexity and technicality. They seem to consider cooking good melodies and hooliness is most imporatant part in this album. With each listening this cd, my impression has been slowly growing a bit. What The Mystery Hall does might not be earth-shattering, but I respect what they have acheived on this The Voyager Through The Void so far. I hope they keep making the music, and next time they will bring much polished product in the future. Congrats for entering the crowded ProgPower and Melodic Power scene.

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Mythologic - Standing In Stillness
PMM
(2003)

Since 1994, U.S. independent label PMM (Progressive Music Management) has been introducing us to quality and excellent prog rock/metal bands throughout the time. For instance, the bands/projects like Leger De Main, RH Factor, and Andeavor have been respected by prog rock/metal fans all over the world. In my case, Andeavor and Gratto are the bands I have checked out from PMM. Since both music of them intrigued me quite a lot, I have been aware of how PMM presents us prog-oriented quality works. If you never heard of any band on the rooster of PMM, you will find great enjoyments from the bands I have mentioned above.

Mythologic features Chris Rodler (guitars/bass) and Bret Rodler (drums) as its core members with Andeavor's Steve Matusik (guitars) and Leger De Main's front female singer Melissa Rodler (formely Melissa Blair). As much as great Gratto album released in 2002, Mythologic offers excellent progressive music on Standing In Stillness. The players of Mythologic are really top-notch musicians to create really intense and driving progressive rock music with metallic edge and well-constucted insightful songs. A producer/sound engineer/technical adviseor, John Treberthan, helped them to hone the sound and mix on Standing In Stilleness shiny and crisp. It is amazing for me that Rodler brothers have been involving several prog unites/projects at the same time, but each PMM band made really great albums coninuously without any flaw. It proves that how these musicians are intelligent to pull the strings of different units, and what each project goes where. In addition, they have really intense song-writing abilities to give a birth to each album.

As you listen to the music of Mythologic closely, Standing In Stillness combine progressive rock intensities that Leger De Main and Gratto has with the elements of prog metal bombast and theatrics. In addition, what Mythologic set aparts from most prog metal/rock band is natural and unique soaring vocal performance of Melissa Rodler. Usually, technical prog metal/rock bands feature male vocalists not to have vocal performances buried in the furious instrumentations. Nevertheless, Melissa's vocal performance stands out on the intensified complex parts. Throughout the music of Standing In Stillness, Mythologic put emphasis on song-oriented approach as much as instrumentations. What I have heard from the info sheet of PMM is that Mellisa has written lyrics and vocal lines for this project about more than five years since this project began. From her stand's point, esp., I feel that "Magic To Breathe" and "In Solitude" give Melissa a shining moments. What she wrote gives a listener introspective and insightful thoughts during listening to this cd in my opinion. And there are lots of hooks and melodic sensibilities due to her natural voices and melancholic flavors. I am very impressed with her vocal performances and melody lines overall. There are lots of hooks and nice moments in the deparmetment of vocal sections, even though the band goes to the realm of intricate and complex prog rock performance.

Speaking of instrrumental sections, they pull off really incredible performance. They know how to play complex and polyrhythmic heavy performance. Unlike Gratto, I have not heard any particular keyboard sounds. Instead, they layered guitar textures. Occasionally, E-bow add nice atmospheres. Andeavor's Steve Matusik added dramatic guitar solos and dynmic guitar riffs. Chris Rodler also contribute some complex rhythmic guitarsections with progressive sounding guitar leads to make the music of Mythologic quite unique. One of highlights for band performance is definately Bret Rodler's incredible drum works to me. Bret Rodler has fantastic drum/cymbal skills to shift tempos, odd-time signatures, and maintain great breaks. Bret seems to have been hidden treasures in prog rock world. I always enjoy his drumming performance. If you are fans of great drumming, you should pay attention to Bret Rodler's performance.

Standing In Stillness is one of well-made and very intriguing prog rock/metal cds I have heard in 2003. The disc contains 7 prog rock and intricate tunes. You will enjoy both song-oriented tracks revolving around Mellisa and progressive bombast tracks. My favorite tunes are mostly on the first half of the cd, like "In Solitude" and "Standing In Stillness" with epic track called "A Dim Too Dark" on the second half of the cd. Stylistically, their music is described as technical prog rock with lots of complex rhythms and driving metallic parts. If you are fans of Leger De Main, Andeavor, Gratto, Fates Warning, Rush, and Dream Theater, you will definately love the music of Standing In Stillness. Additionally, I also would like prog metal/technical listeners give a chance to Mythologic and all other PMM artists, because the music of PMM artists is technically demanding and intricate prog sections with frequent tempo changes to push the envelope of what prog has. Highly recommended cd to everyone who loves prog music. One of best prog rock/metal albums in 2003.

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