CONTAGION

Arena's most accomplished album in my humble opinion, and my favorite. Even though he already did on Immortal?, Rob Sowden once again proves he is the man for the vocal job in Arena. He is intense, theatrical but not overly theatrical like Paul Wrightson was (he was good, but to me he was just another Fish in the sea... ;)). The pieces flow well into one another and things are clear from the start that this is a dark album ( I think Mitchell's guitar is tuned in C in Witch Hunt, and that makes for a dark and heavy intro to the album). No less than 3 instrumentals here, and they are all excellent, particularly "Riding the Tide" which is probably my favorite Arena song.

I like every song on this album, and the "Angel" recurring theme is always welcome and pertinent when it is played. From start to finish, the succesion of moods is fabulous, ending with the majestic "Ascension".

Every musician shines here, even Mick Pointer offered an inspired and solid performance. This album proves that this is THE Arena line-up, and everyone in the band must have felt that too, as they are still together after 3 albums, a first for this band

Arena's masterpiece, and a neo prog masterpiece. A reference to judge all neo prog albums by.

Five stars for a classic.