BEYOND DREAMS

In April 99' comes the first strike in Galleon's history, when guitarist Micke Vaern decided to leave the band.His replacement was Sven Larsson, a friend of Ulf Petersson, who spent his time with the band Xinema.The dawn of the millenium marks also the beginning of a long collaboration between Galleon and the Prog label Progress Records.In early 2000 the first product of Galleon for the new label and their sixth full-length release overall sees the light under the title ''Beyond Dreams''.

With the new album the Swedish band returns to the form of their very early works, no epic tracks or suites, just seven mid-length compositions with symphonic and Neo Prog flavors, yet characterized by the great quality of Galleon's latest releases.Again the group offers intelligent, emotional and captivating compositions, where melody meets grandieur, based on excellent piano parts, MARILLION-esque synth lines and expressive vocals.The symphonic tendencies remain in the menu of the group, the great, elaborate guitar solos are still present and the more bombastic, atmospheric passages with the full-synth sound become a trademark of the group.The new album contains plenty of memorable themes, some tremendous keyboard solos and a crystal-clear production to make things even better.A long and epic composition would have made the whole work sound even more attractive, but still all of the new tracks are high in terms of quality with also a good dose of vintage 70's Prog influence, especially in some KING CRIMSON-inspired guitar moves or the GENESIS-flavored keyboard soundscapes.

Dissapointment and Galleon have nothing in common.Another great album by the band, not in the same level as the masterful ''Mind Over Matter'', but very rewarding to say the least.Fine music all the way, strongly recommended, especially to all Neo/Symphonic Prog buffs...3.5 stars.