BEYOND DREAMS

Of all European prog bands that I have been dealing with over the years, I must have had more contact with Galleon than with any other. They are no longer on their own label but have now signed to Progress Records for their most recent release. 'Beyond Dreams' seems a million miles removed from 'Lynx'; can it really be the same band? Well, actually guitarist Micke Värn has now left the fold, having been replaced by Sven Larsson, but the other three are all the same guys who were first in contact with me some eight years ago.

One of Galleon's major strengths has always been their lyric, and this album yet again shows their prowess in English, while Goran's vocals maintain enough of his Swedish accent to provide extra interest. Sven has slotted right in, and this is a very polished album, which has enough complexity to make it accessible for the progheads, but the main thrust is the songs, which are melodic and very enjoyable.

Galleon are to my ears one of the best prog bands to come out of Scandinavia, not a thing I say lightly. Give your ears a treat

Feedback #59, July 2000