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Padovani, Lelio - The Big Picture
Pain of Salvation - Entropia
Palmqvist, Daniel - A Landscape Made From Dreams
Parallaxe - CDR demo
Parallaxe - Soundtrack
P:O:B (Pedestrians of Blue) - Crossing Over
Persephone's Dream - Moonspell
Persephone's Dream - Opposition
Petrucci, John - Suspended Animation
Phideaux - Chupacabras
Phideaux - Ghost Story
Phideaux - The Great Leap
Pilgrym - Pilgrimage
Polak, Milan - Dreamscape
Polak, Milan - Guitar Odyssey
Polak, Milan - Murphy's Law
Poland, Chris - Chasing The Sun
Poland, Chris - Return To Metalopolis LIVE
Power of Omens - Rooms of Anguish
Pravda - The Echoing Sounds
Preludium - demo mini-cd and videos
Prymary - s/t
Psycho Drama - The lllusion
Pununzi, Stefano - Timelines

Padovani, Lelio - The Big Picture
Independent Release
(2005)

If I am not mistaken, 'The Big Picture' is the second album of a fine Italian guitar player. Nowadays, a lot of independent musicians play, produce, mix and do everything; in some cases, most musicians do multi-tasking efforts to complete their music for releases. Lelio Padovani is also one of such musicians that do everything for their own works. In the case of Lelio Padovani, his music does not go entirely super-technical or mind-blowing complex guitar music. He stays on playing melodic in a sort of standard structures. Somewhat, he focuses on playing very straight-forward and keeps his music less-complex in some tracks. Lelio's music is a kind of slightly laid-back, yet performing really solid and steady. It's tasty as well for my ears. This would not be of the music for technical guitar music fans, however he showcases some brilliant passages and nice moments when he lets loose in his solo spots. I would say his second full-length album may not send shockwaves on serious guitar music fans, but Lelio seems to know enjoying guitar performance and expressing his feeling and emotions to the broad audience. A few minor disadvantages on his music would be a lack of brilliant production due to the independent's work; in addition, the music tend to be a kind of similar to each song for someone who approaches his music in the first place. I know that making an guitar instrumental music constantly is not easy task, but I hope the guitar player like Lelio would keep up a good work for next move.

Pain of Salvation - Entropia
InsideOut
(1997)

First album of very revered prog metal group from Sweden. Pain of Salvation are a superb original progressive metal group without any doubt. Entropia album of PoS is the very beginning of their greatness and uniqueness revealed. As you see the nature of Pain of Salvation as a group, Entropia is also their first concept album dealing with war and people. This album has everything that the fans of Pain of Salvation and prog metal listeners has; extraordinare instrumental parts, dynamics, emotions, bombasts, driving rhythms, and tricky interplays. Definitely, the focal point of this group is no other than Daniel Gildenlow performing guitars and lead vocals. Speaking of their music, they create quite unique progressive metal with tons of emotions and energy. Some parts from Entropia would remind you of greatness established by Dream Theater, Queensryche, and Fates Warning. Unlike most prog metal bands, their influences and style are quite different. They have established their musical style as crossover kind of mixture progressive metal. Again, what they showcase here is very exiciting and uncanningly unique. The sound production might not be as great as their recent production works, but this album has their own charm and impressive moments. Obviously, it's highly recommended for people who enjoy different kind of quality progressive metal sounds.

Palmqvist, Daniel - A Landscape Made From Dreams
Lion Music
(2006)

A Landscape Made from Dreams is the first solo album from Swedish guitar player Daniel Palmqvist. Even though he is not yet well-known in the instrumental scene, what you hear on this album is really tasty and superb. After having mastered songwritings and performance at the famous music school Musicians Institute's G.I.T., he's been working busy for his fellows and supporting bands in Sweden nowadays. Backed up from Mind's Eye rhythm section (drummer/producer Daniel Flores and bassist Johan Niemann) and Lion Music, he successfully completed a splendid guitar instrumental album. Daniel Palmqvist is a really sensational guitar player and songwriter, so I suggest all guitar instrumental fans need to pay attention to what he's gonna do next. Of course, this was my first time to check out his music. Daniel showcases his incredible guitar chops with melodic sensibilities and high-grade instrumentations on this album. You'll find song-oriented tracks and tasty guitar-oriented instrumentals with superb rhythm parts of his friends from Mind's Eye and guest keyboard players that put nice lead works as well. Entirely, the cd satisfies me big time. This cd is throughly produced and well-balanced in all different areas. Stylistically, Daniel Palmqvist's guitar skills and compositions are a bit similar to what Eric Johnson and Pat Metheny do. However, Daniel has his original sounds and approach, so do not be afraid. In addition, it's quite happy to find out some tunes are agressive and hard driving like what Mind's Eye and XsavioR do. Just like other Lion Music artists, he also proves that he has a tremendous capability to write memorable and tasty songs, while showcasing awesome guitar performance and instrumental prowess. It's a quite big plus for me to find out that a few songs have progressive metal vibes as well, probably due to the involvement of Daniel Flores from Mind's Eye. The album title itself tells us that this album is not merely an average guitar music, yet each track takes the listener to dreamy world. Dramatic soundscapes are being unfolded to everyone, whenever you get into his music deeply. Overall, this is a highly successful instrumental work. Highly recommended for all guitar instrumental fans and even Mind's Eye fans as well.

Parallaxe - CDR demo
Independent release
(2003)

WOAH!!!!, I am really impressed and satisfied with Parallaxe's works on this cdr. Ok, let me introduce you to Parallaxe. Parallaxe is a French progressive metal instrumental band featuring Bea AMANI (bass), Bruno FELLONNEAU (drums, ex. Styll), Alex ANDRINI (Guitars) and Matthieu HUCK (keyboards). Simply, their music performance level is really excellent and high level indeed. Musically, their instrumental works remind me of Liquid Tension Experiment, Gordian Knot, Dream Theater, and Andromeda. Very intense and intricate, yet beautifully calculated performance!! Esp., Matthieu Huck's keyboard performance is stunning, which reminds me of a cross between Jordan Rudess and Rick Wakeman. Of course, this band's other musicians are great, too. Alex Andrini's guitar playing will appeal to the fans of John Petrucci and Allan Holdsworth. The rhythm sections pull off tempo changes and frequent odd-time beats easily. In addition, they create hot-burning driving forces. This cd contains 6 awesome tracks ("Acousmatique", "Paradoxe", "In Extremis", "Y2K", "BWV Fantaisie", and "Indian"). Probably, French Prog Metal scene has been getting flourished nowadays, such as Regency, Dreamlost, Headline, Cymoryl, Rest In Peace, and so forth. Parallaxe displays incredible ensemble technique and nice performance on this CDR demo. I hope they will make full-length album with brilliant sparks and better sound production. Highly recommended for technical and intricate progressive metal fans. Parallaxe is an incredibly hot stuff to my ears!!

Parallaxe - Soundtrack
Independent Release
(2007)

'Soundtrack' is the excellent French instrumental prog metal band's 1st official album (following up to an excellent demo album). Nowadays, French prog metal bands like Adagio and Headline have been highly-regarded and discussed among their fans. I think it's a good sign for French prog metal groups to get recognized internationally. Parallaxe is one of excellent prog metal bands that open my eyes. I think everyone who is into technical and complex instrumental works need to pay attention to them. Since I got to know their fine instrumental heavy music, I've been paying attention to French prog metal scene. Looking back their previous demo cd, what they showcase on their music (reminding me of Liquid Tension Experiment, Planet X, and Japanese prog metal instrumental group Freewill) is quite expressive and dynamic enough to capture my attention. Therefore, I was curious about what their latest cd could offer for listening enjoyment.

Contrary to their previous demo works, this new album sounds much more brighter and lighter with somewhat soundtrack approach taken. Maybe, such sound approach gives you an impression that you are soaked in the music of Disney cartoons and roaming around the amusement park like Universal Studio. Of course, there are lots of complex progressive metal sections and busy instrumental parts that most prog metal bands are good at performing. French musicians this time have obviously put some hilarious and comical elements on the track like "Freak Circus" and "Game Over" with comtempoary touch and new sound ideas. This means that Parallaxe have wanted this album to sound varied and unique enough. Even though I miss some mysterical auras that I enjoyed on the previous work, the cd 'Soundtrack' with their new direction sounds very approacheable and friendly to most prog metal and instrumental rock fans. On the other hand, some groovy and rhythmic approach give impressions of hard fusion. In my opinion, they have successfully managed to create their own unique and friendly progressive metal instrumental album with some jazz and fusiony elements.

Once again, the instrumental techniques and ensemble works of this band are quite amazing and interesting enough to listen from beginning to the end. Rhythmically quite tight and solo parts are very enjoyable. Probably, they tend to put much emphasis of melody over technicality this time. At first, I was a bit overwhelmed by their new approach that sound different from mysterious and technical prog metal sounds on previous cd. Nevertheless, new album of Parallaxe sounds better and better with subsequent listens. For typical prog metal fans, Soundtrack album would be a quite different from typical complex prog metal album. Just like me, subsequent listens give you a new discovery every time. Overall, this is ambitious move for this French prog metal group. Congrats for their hard works.

[official website] http://www.parallaxe.org/
[myspace] http://www.myspace.com/parallaxe

P:O:B - Crossing Over
FishFarm Records
(2007)

In the year of 2007, we have witnessed lots of promising new acts from both prog metal and prog rock worlds. This Norweigian group called Pedestrians of Blue (P:O:B in short) shows very promising talents on this debut album "Crossing Over". They dare not combine progressive hard rock instrumentation with modern synth programming and sound effects. This entire album of "Crossing Over" has a very solid and cohesive music with nice melodic sensibilities. Even though their musicianship is quite skilled and professional, they do not put the emphasis on intricacies and high-technical chops. Their main point is definitely there to make nice songs with sing-a-long chorus and great sounds. However, their music gets really intensified and extend complexity on the instrumental track like "Out of the Rain" featuring symphonic hard arrangements with epicness and "The Line" that is one of my favorite tracks from their debut album. In particular, I've been very impressed with great sound production and engineering works by themselves and the help from Daniel Flores of Mind's Eye, mostly on mixing job. The musical approach of P:O:B would appeal to the music fans who are into Swedish band Mister Kite and German prog metal band Superior as well. P:O:B is really good at balancing both melodic approach and occasional complex progressive hard rock parts with modern keyboard sounds and performance. I could simply say "Wow" to this impressive album by Norweigian newcomers from beginning to the end. I hardly find any flaws nor disappointments. Every time I listen to it, it has new discovery and great melodic jem with song itself and melody. The music of P:O:B has a definitely big potential to a broader melodic rock audience in general, but they never forget adding some prog touch on some songs. To my musical taste, I wish they keep making and adding exiciting prog-leaning instrumental works like "The Line" and "Out of the Rain" with powerfully hard rocking tracks like "The Garden" and "The Other Side". Overall, you could enjoy hook-laden memorable vocal lines, tastly guitar leads, exotic keyboard parts/impressive synth leads, and powerfully driven rhythmic sections. Highly recommended for someone who is into melodic European prog metal/rock with modern twists. What a great new talent to discover! I enjoyed Crossing Over very much. Thanks for P:O:B's excellent work on this album. One of best newcomers in 2007, indeed.

Persephone's Dream - Moonspell
Independent Release
(2001)

Persephone's Dream from Pittsburgh, PA area of USA might be a new sensation in the scene of art-rock/neo-progressive modern rock in my opinion. Definately, female fronted heavy rock/atmospheric metal fans digging the bands like The Gathering and Lacuna Coil will welcome what Persephone's Dream has achieved on the album "Moonspell" rather than typical prog rock/metal fan do. Basically, Persephone's Dream create an interesting mixture of heavy art-rock approach, new wave synthetic sounds, bit of neo-prog touch influenced by Marillion, and female fronted gothic rock elements a la The Gathering and Lacuna Coil. "Moonspell" album features dreamy and mesmerizing tunes filled with beautiful voice of Karin Nicely, heavy good guitar riffs/melodic phrasings played by Persephone's Dream leader, Rowen Poole who also managed keyboards/synthetic programmmings pretty effectively, and solid rhythm sections courtesy by Ed Wiancho (drum), and making heavy bottoms and nice bass lines by Chris Siegle. On Moonspell album, you will find very crystal clear sound production with different tunes, which entertain listeners who are not stick to one genre. Esp. mesmerizing and dreamy epic tracks like "Millenium Moon", "Evident Dreams", and "Euphoria" take you to spiritual journey from real world filled with sorrows and sadness. Some other tracks, such as "Electronic Exotic" and "Altar Desire", give us different touches than other tracks, because moods and atmospheres on those tracks provide the vibes of The Gathering/Lacuna Coil-like emotions and feeling toward listners to get healed. Honestly, I can not believe that why they are not signed with a bigger label or notable independent label. Persephone's Dream curved their own musical world on "Moonspell" album. I just happened to receive this cd of the help of Mr.Rowen Poole. Their music is very fresh, and gave me a pleasant astonishment. Personally, I had hard time to review, because there is no exact comparable bands to describe them in the beginning. But that is good, because they are making totally different kind of music we have never imagined. Yes, they are definately art rock style heavy modern rock band generally speaking. I dare to give 4.5 point on Moonspell, because I realy want to look forward to hearing what they are capable of in the future. Very promising female fronted band to check out if you are die-hard fan of The Gathering, Lacuna Coil, and Dreams Of Sanity. I also dare to recommend people who enjoy listening to Top 40 kind of modern pop rock band like, The Cramberries, and plus Sarah McLacghlan (I am not sure her spelling is correct or not...LOL). Highly recommended cd!!
http://www.mindspring.com/~persephone1
persephone1@mindspring.com

Persephone's Dream - Opposition
Independent Release
(2001)

If I am correct, I believe Opposition is their third full-length album. Last time, I was very impressed with their excellent second release, Moonspell that has lots of etherical atmospheres and nice ensembles featuring Karin Nicely. In the case of Opposition album, Persephone's Dream have added a new member, Kim Finney (keyboards). What this album distinguishes from previous album is that they have injected more rawness and heaviness over etherial flowing atmospheres. Probably, keyboard progamming seems to be nowhere you can find. I feel that Opposition is more organic and heavy rock oriented album, so neo-progness/art rock parts have been stripped away. To me, I missed some proggy moments I have enjoyed on Moonspell. They seem to have been exploring into the crossroads of organic rock approach and mystical area on thie new album. Just like previous album, their music is kind of difficult to be classified. I can not call them gothic metal or prog metal, because what they play does not sound similar to any other comtemporaries. The atmospheric and art-form music can be applied to their style I hope. The vocal performance of Karin Nicely is a definitive focal point of this band music to maintain atmospheric flowing moments all the time. New member, Kim Finney utilizes her colorful keyboard sounds to enchance the dynamics and atmospheres mainly and impressive sound textures. Rowen Poole's 6-,7-, 12-strings guitar performance lays down both heavy and powerful tones. Their rhythm section also holds important roles to shift moments and create driving up-tempo parts. My favorite tracks from "Opposition" are etherial and mystical "Endymion", energetic King Crimson-esque heavy "TV Talk Show", "10th Moon" and "Far Side of Eden". Opposition features both driving rock tunes and mystified calm songs. In the beginning of Oppoisition listening experience, it was kind of tought to describe what is going on. Generally speaking, they try to put different ideas together on this album. Eventually, it turned out unique art-form moden heavy female vocal oriented rock music. Perhaps, it might take several spins to absorb everything going on, but definately it is enjoyable listening experience tour-de force. Atmospheric/emotional music fans will enjoy this one.

John Petrucci - Suspended Animation
Sound Mind
(2005)

This is the first solo album of Dream Theater's lead guitarist John Petrucci. It had been rumored about his solo album coming out since early Y2K, but it took several years to set the date to have released after all. Anyway, John Petrucci's solo album features really solid and hard-driving excellent guitar instrumentals complimented by bassist Dave Larue of Dixie Dregs and Petrucci's fellow rhythm section (but not from any members from Dream Theater). Of course, the musicianship of John and his participating members are highly proficient and pulling off quite intricate yet in very melodic way. Some tracks have a bit similar feeling of Liquid Tension Experiment and Dream Theater, but the overall atmosphere of this album is not in the vein of prog metal or prog fusion. 'Suspended Animations' by John Petrucci rather features solid and slightly straightforward guitar-oriented instrumentals with very nice melodic sensibilities. Even though this album is produced by John Petrucci himself and engineerd by his closer people, the entire production and mixing are very catchy and well-done. I have nothing to complain about any parts. Everything has been performed and done perfectly. If this album were released from either Lion Music or Shrapnel Records, I would not have been surprised at all. It's a bit tricky and sad news for some people to get this cd through his online website shop strictly, but definitely this cd is worthwhile to place the order from his official website. In fact, I also purchased this solo album through John Petrucci's website, and their service is really reliable and quick, so why do not you hesitate to get it ;-) Overall, I have been very impressed with this fantastic result. The songwriting skills and his guitar performance are one of top notch. Highly recommended for DT fans and guitar instrumental music.

Phideaux - Chupacabras
Bloodfish Music
(2005)

Chupacabras is the follow-up album to Phideaux's deeply emotional prog album, Ghost Story. Even though it had been only a year after the release of privious album, Chupacabras packs lots of interesting instrumentations and emotional roller-coaster movements more than before in my opinion. I am not sure what's happening on the camp of Phideaux, but what they have achieved here is really interesting to sink the teeth into it. On the first half of the album, the concept story like epic is unfolded with lots of keyboards and driving energy. I am quite amused with different colour pallets presented in the keyboard departments. You hear the solid performance overall with storyline and lyrical message from the mainman Phideaux Xavier. Again, their music is slightly similar to Discipline from U.S. here, but Phideaux is not definitely follower kind of group. I consider that Chupacabras is one of their best works in the term of its music and production. Obviously, they do not intend to perform technically like contemporary symphonic prog groups. But they carefully build up the melodies and atmospheres entirely on this new one. I came to know that Chupacabras has done really great jobs for Chupacabras. All musicians here get together to perform sincerely and melodically. I think their influences from Pink Floyd and David Bowie are not very apparent, but indeed the music has been influenced by prog rock frontrunners like them. Chucabras requires you to approach Phideaux carefully with some concentrations. It's worthwhile to get nice moments and great vibes from the music of Phideaux. Congrats for a nice music!

Phideaux - Ghost Story
Bloodfish Music
(2004)

This is my first attempt to write down my thoughts about Phideaux. If I am not mistaken, Ghost Story is the third album from U.S. symphonic prog rock band. Phiedeaux might not be a typical prog rock bands that I have introduced in the past, but I think that this group has managed to put lots of fresh ideas into diverse prog rock music on Ghost Story album. Even though Phideaux is the group centered around the lyrical contents written by Phideaux Xavier, all members of the band collaborate and put their energy onto each song. How do I start discussing the music of Phideaux? Ghost Story has a beautiful and atmospheric flow from the beginning to the end. Some songs have moody and thought-provoking feelings. On the other hand, the epic song like "Beyond The Shadow of Doubt" has lots of development and unique instrumental sections with emotional vocal lines and passages from Phideaux Xavier. There have calmer symphonic songs and driving rock tunes with a bit heavier edge. It might take time to digest the entire music on Ghost Story, because the band put different ingredients to express drama, emotions, and some kind of conflicts in the way of Phideaux. Indeed, with each spinning of the cd, I think the Ghost Story album provides some kind of ponder thoughts about human beings encountering emotional struggles within the composer/lyricist, and search how to get out of it...something like that. Stylistically, this band put the emphasis on moody and atmospheric song writing approach over complexity and intricacies, so tech-heads need to be careful to approach Phideaux's music at first. However, if you take time to listen to Ghost Story, you'll find a lot of new discoveries. In my opninion, the sounds of Phideaux on Ghost Story are not dissimilar to Space Oditty ear's David Bowie, early Pink Floyd, 1st album of Gazpacho, and unique U.S. symphonic prog band Discipline. Well, I am the guy who usually pick up the cds that feature complexity and technical chops, but Phideaux gives nice moments to sink in and think about the story and feeling from the music carefully. The music of Phideaux might not grab you instantly, but it's definitely worthwhile to find enjoyments from subtle expressions and symphonic flavors with heavy edge. Overall, this is interesting prog rock music I have encountered in recent months. Okay, if you are getting curious about this band after reading this review about Phideaux, please give a chance to their music. Unbelievably, the price of each cd of Phideaux is very reasonable; it's around 5 dollars. It's a really good price indeed, so please check out their website and soundfiles. Go and check out their website here (http://www.bloodfish.com/) Well-done album for the fans of symphonic and modern prog rock music with atmospheric and accessible vibes.

Phideaux - The Great Leap
Bloodfish Music
(2006)

American prog rock artist Phideaux Xavier returns with his fifth and very ambitious brand-new album. Even though he's not released his cds through major prog label, he's one of most productive independent artists in the prog scene. When I opened my mail box the other day, the new parcel of Phideaux's latest offering astonished me. I think he's been really an honest and serious prog musician out there who is constantly making prog-centered modern new music. 'The Great Leap' shows really dynamic and emotionally intense melodic prog rock album with modern touch. With each release, he has molded his own sounds and colorful elements into his compositions. If you are familiar with his music previously, I would say this new album has both elements of his psychedelic rock touch like '313' and slight symphonic rock approach from 'Chupacabras'. However, he successfully has made a totally different prog rock entity. In my tastes, his previous album '313' seems being away from typical prog and symphonic style with more contemporary touch, so I assumed he tried some new experiments and direction. In the case of 'The Great Leap', every song gets really tight and very cohesive than ever. This means that he has found his new sounds and established an unique music. I can not compare his new music to somebody else. Maybe, his new album reminds you of accessible side of of Genesis and David Bowie, but I would rather say that Neal Morse's solo music fans would enjoy this big time. Well, what can I say? Phideaux himself and his friends get together to make brilliant sounds and nice modern prog songs. Chupacabras is one of my favorite Phideaux albums, but 'The Great Leap' is another great winner. For his group, this must've been a challenging stuff to complete. However, Phideaux has done great job. I notice that comtemporary prog fans instantly have enjoyed and praised this album. I am very satisfied with my first listen. Congrats for making an interseting new album. It's a great mixture of great song-writing skills and nice melodic sensibilities of Phideax and his friends. Of course, you would hear their tight musicianship including his guest musicians. The entire production of this album is superb and really pleasant. Highly recommended for fans who are into prog rock/symphonic rock with very new approach and direction.

Pilgrym - Pilgrimage
Holy Ground Records
(2004)

This is British prog rock project's 1st album led by a multi-instumental player Andy Wells. When I received the cd at the first time, it instantly made me interested. Their name like Pilgrym and Pilgrimage sounds very close and related to my website's name. :-) Btw, I like the sounds and name itself of PILGRIM, which is my favorite actually. I had never imagined the band called Pilgrim or Pilgrym playing prog or prog metal before. So it was interesting to find a name like that. Stylistically, Andy Wells and his companions have been pursuing symphonic prog rock and melodic oriented music. The music on Pilgrimage album sometimes reminds me of John Wetton's solo music and a few British prog rock bands. Pilgrimage contains 7 compositions, one live track, and edit version of Circus of The Absurd. Throughout the album, there are lush epic symphonic rock tracks and catchy melodic songs. Esp., I like the tracks like, "Circus of the Absurd" and "Song of Albatross." Pilgrym utilizes lush and dramatic keyboard sounds quite a lot with a driving rock ensemble. Well, I would say that their music might reside between 70's classic prog rock period and 80's neo-prog era, however I do not say they are typical neo-prog band. According to the info sheet of Pilgrim, I think they are trying to revive prog rock sounds into this modern music world. As long as I listen to Pilgrimage album, I came to know the torch of British prog rock/symphonic rock spirits are undying. Pilgrimage might not be a earth-shattering or mind-blowing musical endeavor, but surely the music of what Pilgrym repsents here will appeal to the fans who like nostalgic and melodic British prog music. What they do is not really complex, it is rather very accessible even for prog rock beginners and music fans who never heard of prog before. Overall, I enjoyed listening to their first offering. I wish them all the best for their next album. Ok, if you are curious about their music, why don't you check out their site and website. Pilgrym has been devoted to making progressive music. There are lots of info about them. Go check it out.
[website: http://www.pilgrym.co.uk/]
[contact: tonypilgrim@yahoo.co.uk, andywells@hydeaway.fslife.co.uk]

Polak, Milan - Dreamscape
Lion Music
(2005)

Wow!, I instantely have enjoyed listening to the the materials on Milan Polak's latest guitar instrumental album, since I got Dreamscape. Definately, Milan Polak is one of new sensations in guitar world. According to the reliable info and sources including Lion Music, this talented Austrian guitarsit used to be a guitarist of Falco. He must be a really well-schooled all-round guitar player/instructer as well. On his official website, lots of famous and well-established guitarists and music-biz people praise Milan's extra-ordinary guitar performance. I also think he deserves such tremendous praises. Ok, let's get into more about Dreamscape album. Dreamscape album features diverse guitar instrumentals and great chops in a same disc. From the beginning to the end, I believe guitar freaks will be into Milan's amazing instrumental works and musical compositions. His guitar swells, grooves, and shreds. Most guitar parts and other instruments are handled by Milan, except for drums played by a talented Thomas Flang who performs really bombastic on the album. I believe all materials on Dreamscape have potensials to shake guitar instrumental fans. Stylistically, Milan has really clean tones and smooth guitar virtuostic styles. People who enjoy the music and performance of Jason Becker, Wolfgang Zenk, John Petrucci, and Joe Satriani, should pay attention to his solo works very closely. His solo album, Dreamscape, features 13 tracks in total. But there has been no flaws and defects at all so far. I personally wish him to play progressive guitar instrumentals like 1st track, Panic Room more and more. Nevertheless, each track contains great instrumentation, bombastic moments, beutiful music sensibilities, and smooth sections. Very varied and quite listenable guitar instrumentals. Recently, his guitar album has topped the chart of one of famous guitar online shops. Overall, Milan Polak's solo album definately impress all music fans and instrumental lovers. Highly recommended for guitar fans. Milan Polak is an amazingly Extraordinary and brilliant musician!!!!!
[official website: http://www.milanpolak.com/]

Polak, Milan - Guitar Odyssey
Lion Music
(2005)

Personally, Milan Polak's release called "Dreamscape" is one of sensational guitar instrumental albums in 2005. It's quite amusing to know that Lion Music has re-issued Milan's previous album, Guitar Odyssey, originally released in 1995. Guitar Odyssey has to be Milan's debut album including his earlier works before he gets known well to the world. According to the info from Lion Music, Guitar Odyssey has been improved with sounds and productions as well. It's quite impressive for listeners to find out that Milan has already established his diverse guitar instrumental styles and technical chops, even way before he released "Dreamscape" album. Some instrumental works on the first half of the album remind me of Joe Satriani, Vai, and Shrapnel Records' artists, but of course Milan laid out his original touch and taste to make his own. But when I listen to this album gradually, I found out that his dramatic instrumental prowess and great song-writing abilities have been unfold, esp., the second half of this album is really impressive. Overall, Guitar Odyssey shows Milan Polak's promising future, and I strongly believe that Guitar Odyssey will be loved by many guitar instrumental fans.
[official website: http://www.milanpolak.com/]

Milan Polak - Murphy's Law
Lion Music
(2009)

Austrian guitar player Milan Polak came back to the scene of guitar music with his latest album 'Murphy's Law' in 2009. But before getting into his new album at first, I need to write down a little bit about his turning point between most recent works. After that, I would like to delve this album deeper later. Since the 'Straight' cd was out some years ago, he has slightly changed a direction toward the vocal-oriented hard rock with some emphasis on his technical prowess. But it does not mean anything like he sells out to sacrifice what he's always wanted to approach, so please do not worry about his new direction. What Mr. Polak challenged on the 'Straight' album was to sing his lead vocals on all songs, whereas his first two solo albums never featured his vocal tracks. It was a great challenge for him to move forward in that direction; but he has done this successfully until today. This courageous new approach has got a great praise and feedback from his enthusiastic guitar fans also enjoying his vocal works. On the other hand, it seems an inevitable step forward for him, since he plays and works in the United States most time. You would understand that playing guitar instrumental solely without any vocals has been very tough to survive in the situation of American music business. All in all, his new approach on his previous album ('Straight') turned out to be another winner. It sounds very solid, yet having a relaxed and American Hard Rock feeling with Milan Polak's superb guitar work. That album reminds of a cross between Bad Company and Mr.Big to my ears. Well, I hope you've got the background history about his new process of making music, right? Sorry that I've not done the review of Straight cd yet; that's why I wanted to drop a line about before getting into the 'Murphy's Law' album.

Okay, now let's get closer to the present time. Having got a renewed energy with great confidence, he released another vocal-featured guitar album in 2009. "Murphy's Law" cd definitely shows a bit similar approach taken on the last album, yet Milan picked up what it's left. He took the new album onto a higher level with new elements and fresh ideas combined together. The new album also proves his brilliant musicianship and great songwriting skills once again. With some great helps from Subway To Sally drummer Simon Michael and Fabio Trentini (bass/samplers/minimoog/programming), all songs are brilliantly composed and performed in a great manner. It would have been very difficult to surpass the high quality of his past works, but new one sounds indeed extraordinaire and fantastic. In my honest opinion, his latest album is really impressive.

The opening track is a self-titled one called "Murphy's Law" that features hook-laden melodies and Milan's lead vocals. At glance, the riff and his soloing is definitely superb and amazing. In the beginning of this song, there is a bit of the similar vibe like Megadeth - "Symphony of Destruction". But please do not get me wrong; that is my reference point, just mind you. That impression just fades away very quickly, and now you just enjoy the strong musicianship of Milan Polak and his band members on this song. Yeah, the structure of this title track is very solid and accessible. It stays sounding heavy; the rhythm section is very powerful. There is an incredible touch over production and arrangement. What impressed me is both the instrumentation and subtle programming sounds courtesy by Fabio Trentini. The title track number is an ideal opening track for this album, indeed.

Then, second track "No God" comes in. The lyrical message about this song is warning and angry against any general religion's hypocritical nature and hurting their believers. The music itself has dark textures and heavy sounds; its tempo is relatively a bit fast, so the listener could enjoy the immediate punch and sheer energy. That's how I've interpreted listening through this second track. Again, the structure of this number is solid and interesting. Exotic phrasings and with soloing by Milan are always fantastic. I get into the amazing unison part that sounds very nice; it's the unison of guitar playing and minimoog sounds, I supppose. Of course, the guitar soloing of Milan Polak is always tasteful. There is a lot of hard driving and lava-flowing energy by the whole ensemble. One of my first favorite tracks from the new album.

Third track "Inner Truth" is once again a heavy guitar-driven song. I hear Middle-Eastern and Arabian vibes with modern atmospheres. This vocal line of Mr. Polak is hooky and appealing to the audience. Yeah, the entire rhythm work a is again very good. The solo spots of Austrian guitar player are quite unique and somewhat intimidating for serious guitar players. There is also a short, yet nice drum fill-in of Simon Michael. The overall sound of this number is very dense and humongous with exotic feels.

Next tune, "Losing Me", changed the pace into the mid-tempo. Three previous numbers are heavy and powerful typically, but this number is quite different from them. It sounds more characterized as bluesy and slightly laid-back U.S. rock genre; acoustic guitars are used effectively as well. These standard verse and chorus sections are memorable and accessible. The song's theme is more or less straightforward about human relationship; its ending part features impressive guitar solo of Milan.

"Wannabes" is one of my favorite heavier numbers like "No God" on the cd. The riffing of Mr. Polak is amazing once again; his soloing has a melodic yet exotic structure. The chorus parts and refrains of vocals are made memorable for the listener. Its middle section of this song has a brilliant instrumental display with amazing exotic guitar phrasing and soloing. The latter part of its number picks up the faster tempo gradually, and crescending with great energy toward the end.

Just like forth track, "The Opposite of Love" comes back again to American style hard rock/bluesy type sounds. Unlike a previous track "Wannabes", the tempo of this number is rather slow and relaxed attitude. Instead, the pounding drum by Simon Michael is much evident this time. The soloing of Polak seems staying on bluesy and pentatonic, yet he showcases intricate playings. The pattern of rhythm parts is unique; they have funky rhythm groove going on as coming to the middle section. In addition, the bass part is getting cool; I really enjoy hearing a walking-down bass line in the latter part of this song

It's always my pleasure to hear "Sheeple" every time. The vibe of this song has a kind of progressive attitude from Milan Polak and the band. It's entirely uptempo and very exiciting from beginning to end. A bits of funk element shown, but exciting energy of this song explodes in the style of heavy fusion. The people, who are into German 7for4 and DT's John Petrucci's technical style, would be surprised how brilliant and impressive this number is. "Sheeple" has a kind of progressive metal-like intricacies and complexity in the instrumental section. This one is absolutely one of my favorite tracks from 'Murphy's Law' cd. It packs superb solo of Milan and dynamic ensemble with great intensity. What a great and extraordinaire number it is. The song itself is of his statement that he's been fed up with MTV in general and corporate music industry with modern pop idols.

"Torn" follows a kind of ballad-esque traits of American rock. In the beginning part, it features lots of acoustic plays; sooner or later it transforms into slightly heavier and power rock style. This number would possibly appeal to a different audience outside guitar music fans. There has emotional melodies and vocal lines, too. The electric guitar soloing is uplifting. As the song goes on, there is also a change of pace. Fabio Trentini contibutes organ sounds and keyboards to sound fuller with varous guitar sounds. Milan does not only use electric guitars, but also does feature nylon strings guitars. Esp., his solo in nylon strings gives a different texture and latin type vibe. Throughout this album, "Torn" is a quite different and original sounding number I guess.

"Alien Nation" is a solid and heavy number everyone enjoys. While listening to the song in the beginning, the style of Scorpions (in the era of Crazy World) comes to my mind a little bit. Again, this is merely my initial impression, so do not be offended. Of course, he's established his own style and charms, so nothing to worry about. Anyway, there is a nice melody line with hooky chorus parts. In the case of this song, Milan's guitar solo tremendously astonishes me and mind-blowing; it's a very technical and superbly intense. The structure of this song is more like straightforward, yet it sounds modern with quality production.

"Fake" is perhaps the song about struggles in daily life for anyone. It's very rhythmic and has slight funky vibes. I could guess Milan plays his strings slightly heavier on purpose than as usual, yet the guitar riff and rhythm sounds great. The addition of keyboard programming and samplers (I'm assuming from what I've heard) put a sublte touch to create unique dynamics. Stylistically, this track is classified slightly as American hard rock, but having a comtemporary flavor as well.

The last number "The Mystery of Life" has a big sound and progressive feeling in the instrumentation. The first half of its number has almost progressive metal-like wall of sounds and atmospheres in a heavy direction (just imagine like Dream Theater's Awake type dense sounds, but not following stylistically). The pace of its number is relatively staying in mid-tempo, yet having a immediate punch and grinding power sounding a cross between Soundgarden and recent works of Enchant to my ears. Anyway, it grows slowly into a different entity itself. The pace of this song does not always stay the same. As they dive into the middle section, their great instrumentation starts off: Keyboard effects and SE samplers with voice-overs join in while the whole band is getting intricate and very busy. Everyone in the band builds up intensity to reach the climax; then calms down a bit after that. WOAH, I really love the process like that. Later on, they land in the exotic moment that sound similar to the territory Led Zeppelin had been exploring before. Coming to the full circle, the band comes tack to heavier and crunchier sounds. This song is definitely one of my favorite tracks along with other highlights like "Sheeple".

What can I say more about his new album? The album of 'Murphy's Law' shows a new accomplishment for Milan Polak and his band members with fresh ideas and new challenges together. If you have followed the works of Milan Polak, this album would satisfy you the listener. Once again, Lion Music proves themselves knowing introducing quality guitar players and musicians to the instrumental music scene. Please remember that Milan Polak is not merely a very talented and versatile guitar player; but he also has a great voice to sing impressively in any style. From now on, where is he heading next to make a better new album than 'Murphy's Law'. We never know, but I congratulate him making such a brilliant latest album featuring some other facets. I think he has joined in the league of excellent contemporary rock guitarists like John Petrucci, Wolfgang Zenk, Marty Friedman, Alessandro Benvenuti, and Joop Wolters to name but a few. If you are curious about his new music, just visit his website/MySpace and listen to his music. I hope that he continue creating the tunes like "The Mystery of Life" and "Sheeple" kind of intensity and instrumental works that impress me big time :) Highly recommended for guitar instrumental fans all around the world.

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

Chris Poland - Chasing The Sun
Groovyeard Records
(2001)

Groovyyard Records' artist, Chris Poland, finally unleash new intense guitar album. Perhaps, some loyal Chris Poland fans wait for his new materials for such a long time, but wait is over. Due to his fame on Megadeth/Damn The Machine, some people thought that Chris put intense agressive powerful instrumental tunes, but on Chasing The Sun, he relatively focus on his bluesy and progressive aggressive fusion rock ensembles and playing. Nevertheless, his brand-new solo album must appeal die-hard aggressive guitar instrumental tunes. If you are not familiar with Chris Poland, you would find out his guitar playing as hot-burning and emotioned filled performance. Latest Poland's solo album features several emotion-filled instrumental guitar works which are mainly supported by drummer Mark Poland, bassist Francis Dicosmo, and other unknown, but skillful musicians who are close to Chris Poland,. Simply, Chris's guitar playing is outstanding and he should be recognized as the player blending fusion, hard rock elements with lots of emotion and feeling very well. On this album, he showcases various styles, such as fusion, blues rock, aggressive rock, Latin flavored tunes, and lots of more. His guitar tones are very tasty and enjoyable. Each song does not take long more than 4 to 5 minutes, except for a few. Chasing The Sun also can appeal people who are not into instrumental music that much, because several hard driving tunes won't let you go. Chasing The Sun contains, emotional "Chasing The Sun," laid back, yet heavy feeling fusion track "Hip Hop Karma," unpredictable bluesy rock tune "Wendel's Place," "Robot Stomp," 90's modern touch "Lulu's Dream," Santana-like "Salvador," fusion hard rockish "Alphabet City," and other interesting guitar-oriented tracks for my enjoyment. Last track of "Alexiandria" showcases that they can pull off aggressive and intense hard -driving performance on the stage without any gimmic. Through entire "Chasing The Sun" album proves that Chris Poland with co. has showcased very tastful and great bluesy and powerful ensembles and solos as well. Die-hard guitar freaks must not miss this gem. Chris himesel shows tons of nice phrasings, tones, and feelins which are all magnificent. Simply, I would say that Chris Poland smokes and "Chasing The Sun" is essential for guitar fans!! I am the lucky one that gets this nice and smooth heavy guitar album with bit of progressive touch feeling. I really appreciate Steve Bauer of Groovyyard Record sent me this hidden treasure of guitar freaks. His name should be remembered both inside and outside boundaries of music scene.

Poland, Chris - Return To Metalopolis LIVE
Lion Music
(2007)

Probably, I do not have to explain much deeply that Chris Poland used to be a member of the highly regarded thrash metal giant Megadeth in the era of 'Peace Sells...But Who's Buying' After having left Megadeth quite many years ago, Chris Poland has been regarded as a talented guitar instrumentalist known a player of Damn The Machine, Ohm, and his solo works in recent years. In 2007, it is really delighting and exciting news that we can get a chance to hear the days of Chris and his group playing the materials from his classic album Return To Metalopolis. The latest album 'Return To Metalopolis LIVE' is now available from the prestigious Finnish guitar/prog metal label Lion Music :). This edition from Lion Music has some bonus tracks from the live materials of Ohm as well. Indeed, this live album captures the days of heavier side of Chris Poland and dynamic live performance including a material of Megadeth. Probably, the fans of Chris Poland who strictly listen to hard fusion era and his recent works get to hear a slightly heavier and bit thrathier approach. There are some quite up-beat and quite faster pumping rocking energy with intense feeling on this live album. To me, 'Return To Metalopolis LIVE' captures the moments that Chris is going to make a transition from Thrash Metal toward a complex prog metal style of Damn The Machine and slight hard fusion style like nowadays. It's definitely monumental live works done by Chris Poland and his band members.

Power of Omens - Room of Anguish
MetalAge Records
(2002)

Finally, long wait is over. Fantastic prog metal band, Power of Omens from Texas , returns with their second album, Room of Anguish. After escaping from Elevate Records, MetalAge proudly released Power of Omens' new release. Even though it took such as long years to release new one, Power of Omens were really active for preparing new materials, playing at ProgPower USA festival, and so on. Simply, Room of Anguish is....what a masterpiece!! There are lots of outstanding jobs on this new album. We can find lots of variety songs that combine technical ensemble with hooklieness and interesting elements, such as Spanish influences. On previous album, they tend to concentrate on busy instrumentation. Technical and busy sections are still evident, yet they add more unique musical spices to make music interesting as well. From beginning to the end, this album does not have intermissions and breaks. Rather, all songs put together to have one big flow. Comparing to last album, they improved sound production and musical arrangement much better. It seems that they put all music together, arranged, and produced by themselves. The sound quality and prodution on this album sounds really grand and very excellent. Room of Anguish's lyrics are based on their lead singer, Chris Salinas's own experience and reflection about life. Very insightful and really emotionally driven prog metal we are drawn to. On the side of instrumental section, they make music really busy and intricate. Lots of developmental parts and really technical performance I really enjoyed entirely. Esp., many odd-timing and busy pulsing movements that guitar, bass, keyboard, drum, and soaring vocals have created totally prog metal heaven. Totally impressive and outstanding job Power of Omens have done. I could say that Power of Omen's Room of Anguish joins one of great achievement awards in prog metal areas like Zero Hour, Evergrey, Vauxdvihl, Shadow Gallery, Mind's Eye, and Vanden Plas. If you enjoy busy movements, lots of technical ensembles, nice guitar/keyboard/bass/drum performances, really busy sections, fantastic instrumentation, soaring vocals, and on and on...., then Room of Anguish is a DEFINATELY highly recommended prog metal album. Congratulations to outstanding job, Power of Omens.

Pravda - The Echoing Sounds
Sonus West Records
(2003)

Until I got this band's cd, I'd never heard of Pravda from Northwest Pacific area. According to press release of Sonus West Music, Pravda is a progressive rock group consisting of the musicians who have been playing music in the area of Austin, Orland, and Northwest music scenes. The Echoing Sounds is a concept album based on the theme of war period, and having been inspired by some sorts of historical events occured in the communist countries in Eastern Europe. The lyrics and story lines are kind of deeply rooted on changing states of political issues and reflecting human characters. Well, this cd does not mention where, when and what happened precisely on purpose. However, The Echoing Sounds tell us that the situation and the crises in war time would intimidate our life and society. If war or unexpected events breaked out, probably we would find no way out. The storylines and words on their cd ponders listeners such questions and thoughts. On the side of their compositions, basically K.C. Thomsen (keyboards) and Dave Thomas write together words and music. Stylistically, Pravda plays heavy neo-prog/prog metal music influenced by Pink Floyd. Mostly, song-oriented approache over complexity is evident, but they also include intensified and energetic materials like "Saving Your Soul" for instance. They pull off solid ensemble entirely with a slight heavier and harder approach, which is related to progressive metal. However they do not get into the realm of so-called prog metal bands in general. Personally, I enjoyed keyboard works and drumming played by the members of Pravda in particular. Perhaps, it might be a bit difficult to absorb what is going on for the first listening session, because of 14 tracks and a lot of information on the booklet. After spinning the cd repeatedly with reading the storylines thoroughly, then you'll find enjoyable moments on this cd. My favorite tracks are mostly intensified and hard driving tunes with some key solos. For example, the tunes like "Saving Your Soul", impressive instrumental "Omnipotent Struggles", "I Believe", and "Shelterless Nights" click on me most of the time. Yes, I think second half of the cd intrigues me after all. The Echoing Sounds will appeal to neo-prog fans who also enjoy heavier and harder edge music. Well, it took several spins to digest music and story for me. In any way, they did a good job I think.

Preludium - demo mini-cd and videos
Independent Release
(2004)

In these days, I have been very astonished with young musicians' dedication and hard work from all over the world. In 80s and early 90s, there were certain periods that somewhat metalheads had been very doutful about checking out the cds from other countries besides American bands or Western European bands. They tend to judge that those bands from unknown countries do not usually play good metal music. In my opinion, somewhat that was both true and false. I think nowadays if music is really good, no one cares where they are coming from. Over the recent five to six years, we have experienced good products and works from many different countries including Eastern Europe and Latin American countries. Coincidently, I have encountred various hidden treasures from different countries, and some music I received are really brilliant and impressive. Nowadays, I have come to draw the conclusion that good music pop up from any nation on this earth, and anything can happen without no big deal. I think the internet and globalization help the musicians and bands to break the boundaries, and encourage pursuing their best for making music. Ok, having said my thoughts with the sentiments for unsigned artists and musicians, let's move to the subject of the review articles about Preludium. Preludium is a powerful progressive power metal band from Columbia. The bands of Columbia I have encountred so far are relatively solid and well-performed in the field of melodic power metal. Musically, Preludium plays bombastic symphonic power metal and crunchy progressive power metal like Symphony X, Angra, and Power of Omens. Demo materials contain two energetic neo-classically driven prog powerful metal. Video clips feature their live performance at their gig. Both demo cd and video clips of their live gig display their powerful sounds and complex ensemble. Actually, what they show on the music is very intense and impressive to my ears. If they keep polishing up their production and music, Preludium would definately go to next-step. Personally, I really enjoyed the intense ensemble and energetic shred guitar/keyboard solos. The vocalist/rhythm guitar player has a pleasant voice and a nice tone. If you like both melodic neo-classical symphonic metal and energetic progressive power metal, this band will appeal to your musical tastes. I hope they keep adding intricacies and progressiveness with dynamic soundscapes. All musicians of Predludium have good skills and chops. Overall, they are promising new act from Columbia. From now on, I'd like to keep my eyes on Columbian melodic metal and progressive metal scene. Congrats for the enthusiastic work. (Lastly, but not least...thanks for the help of Andres Quintero)

Prymary - s/t
Independent Release
(2003)

Prymary is young progressive metal band from California, U.S.A. Their self-title debut album contains lots of melodic, yet intricate bombastic ensembles. All musicians of Prymary are really confident, yet playing technical parts quite cohesively. Even, they challenge a few other long epic tracks. Personally, I am impressed with each member's shining performance. In the area of U.S. west coast, they often appears at live gigs. Gradually, Prymary start expanding their fanbase. What a nice promising new act they are. Within their own affordable budgets, they have done really fine jobs. Sound production is relativly good, even though this is independent release. Mixing and mastering went really quite well to my ears. You know this is their first offering as Prymary, but they already had been playing for several years before having formed Prymary. Therefore, their musical skills and performance are really well-thought and constructed. I think this is really fine works from this young, yet ambitious hard working musicians. I wish they would get signed with any fine prog metal supporting label in the near future. I hope they keep up making good music and performing.

Psycho Drama - The Illusion
Massacre Records

Personally, Collado-based bands, such as JAG PANZER and THE QUIET ROOM, are quite recognized among metal fans as essential powerful metal/progressive metal genre. PSYCHO DRAMA is also known from Colorado, USA. The Illusion is their fine cd released from Massacre Records, Germany. Perhaps, most of you guys might have heard this band through Magnitude 9's Corey Brown fame. The Illusion was released in 1999 from Massacre Records/Sylvan Music/Intercord Records service etc. Corey Brown perhaps started recognized his career through this band to entire metal scene. I notice that even BURRN! magazine (Japan) has reviewed this album quite long time ago around 1995 and 96. Basically, their music is kind of straight powerful American Metal style, fusing some progressive metal elements influenced from Queensryche/Fates Warning in 80s. Remarkably, Corey Brown's soaring vocal performance is outstanding. Plus, twin guitar playings are flying on the atmopsheres, and bass/drums keep rhythm steady well. Not quite fast tunes you find, but mostly middium tempos and occasional up-tempo/faster tunes keep pumping well. In some tunes, keyboards/synthesized sounds add variety on tunes like the title track, "The Illusion" and "Head Free". Psycho Drama's music is melodic, but atmopshere of The Illusion do not go to happier side, rather they stay in some sad and melancholic colors. I guess that some calm/moody moments on the album did not appeal most Japanese market, but I constantly love listening to this band. Once again, Corey Brown's enchanting voice is appealing quite well. If this band did not exist, we would not have seen MAGNITUDE 9 maybe. My favorite tracks are "Dreams To Sorrow", "Eyes Of A Child", "Longtime Forgotten", "From Here", "World Gone Mad". Each song contains power, atmosphere, melody, and attacks. Although I mentioned the word of "progressive metal", PSYCHO DRAMA will definately appeal powerful metal fans who enjoy classic powerful metal bands.

Pununzi, Stefano - Timelines
ResCD
(2005)

First of all, I really appreciate the e-mail contact from the Italian progressive music artist called Stefano Pununzi. According to his info and message, I instantly jumped his suggestion to send me the copy for the review on his latest album, Timelines. Unfotunately, I have limited and very poor knowledge about Italian prog scene, so I am sorry that I can not explain Stefano's musical background and his activities before. But I have been floored and entertained by his fresh prog rock music, since I got this. Although Stefano Pununzi himself seems to be a bit mysterious figure, he made really atmospheric-oriented modern prog music. On the new album of Timelines, he utilises synth, electric keyboards, loops, and samplers quite uniquely. He occasionally gives his vocal spots with guest female musicians including a Japanese avant/prog female artist, Haco (After Dinner). One of notable artists participaging on his new album is definitely art rock group, Japan's Mick Karn (bassist). Mick's smooth and emotional bass tones and phrases stand out really well, and give nice touch with mesmerizing effects along with Stefano's keyboard works and digital sampling technology. Stylistically, it's hard to pin down what kind of prog music it is. Maybe, the categorization of this music might be non-sence. However, the vibe of Stefano's music has similar to Porcupine Tree, ProjeKCts, Pink Floyd, and even Kevin Moore's Chroma Key. Very smooth and modern sounds are dominant, yet you could feel harder edge and dynamic power from some proggy tracks like "Web of Memories" and long-form "I'm Looking For" are quite excellent for instance. The music of Timelines have been well-organized and flowing quite nicely. The instrumentation on all songs are performed very intelligently and quite nice to hear to my ears. In particular, I think Stefano Pununzi must be really good at combining proggy parts with jazzy and atmospheric flavors. Totally, this album comes from nowhere in my world, but the music Steafano Pununzi created with notable Italian-based competent musicians and world-class prog musicians is quite magical and mystical. One of my favorite prog albums I have heard in 2005. Thanks for great music, Steano :-) Highly Recommended for fans of etherial and modern taste proggy music.