ANIMA

I followed a link about this band from Mikeportnoy.com after they received some positive reviews. I liked the sample tracks I heard and forwarded them to my housemate downstairs, who to my surprise quickly bought the album! I am currently revising for finals and it's always great to hear something new when you are doing something as dull as revision! I borrowed this album from him and have to say that it is doing a great job in keeping me entertained during these dark-revision filled times. This band seem to be a middle road between Dream Theater and a band like Dragonforce imo (though definitely more on the proggy side). I'm not a huge fan of Dragonforce but I am really digging this album, it's filled with some awesome riffs and epic keys (loving the keys actually) - these guys appear to have combined technical skill with solid song writing. In one sense it could appear quite similar throughout but each track has its own unique elements which keep the listener interested. The Inner Quest, Neptune's revenge and The Key are probably my favourites off this album at the moment. Great mixture of heavy crunch, fast runs and clean melodies.

Although probably not worthy of 5 stars it certainly one of the best new albums I've listened to recently and receives a solid 4. I have listened to it multiple times and am far from bored. Certainly worthy of its place here on progarchives. A fine example of prog metal. I will buying my own copy as soon as I get some ££.