CHRIST 0

As far as how the music has evolved from their debut album in 1994 "Colour Temple", this newest album by Vanden Plas is probably the best offering. Their musical ideas and concepts have matured in such a way that the compositions featured here in this album are tight, combining layers of keyboard with heavy riffs and in a good harmony. Listening to this album, one would remember the music of Dream Theater, Symphony X, Fates Warning, Royal Hunt even though none of them are truly alike musically. But each of them shares the same music sub genre under progressive metal category. At first experience I listened to "Far Off Grace" album, this band sounded like a power metal band. Even worse, I did not consider "Far Off Grace" as a solid album that stands out for consideration. But when I listened to "Crist.0" for the first time through my i-Rock! colleague, Andre Solucite, who adored this new album by Vanden Plas. At first I was so reluctant with his invitation to listen to this album. But at an occasion when i-Rock! held a meeting he played me this album. I agreed with him that this new album by Vanden Plas demonstrated better music as compared to previous albums.

From the opening track "Christ 0" (5:37), you can immediately sense how excellent the composition is. It demonstrates clearly how the band produces progressive metal heavy riffs combined with layers of keyboard by Gunter Werno. The structure of the song seems like a straight rock music but when it is combined with the textures and nice melody, it becomes something interesting. The follow-up track "Postcard To God" (6:19) sounds like a bllad music with prog metal scene. The piano shot at the opening of "Silently" gives excellent break after heavy rhythm section of previous track "Wish YouWere Here" (nothing to do with Pink Floyd track!) evn though it continues with heavy riffs and power metal style. "Fireroses Dance" (6:05) is a nice ballad slow rock with piano and cello / violin as background. "January Sun" (10:07) is an excellent track with relatively long duration, great melody and tight composition!

It's definitely an excellent addition to any prog metal music collection. It has tight composition, powerful song writing and flawless performance. Recommended. Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW