UNTIL WE HAVE FACES

It's been a bit of wait for the third studio album from SARIS. Behind the sudden demise of keyboardist/drummer Achim Schmidt and replacement for the vocalist, I had reason to wonder how the group would cope with comeback after their CD 'Curse Of Time' (2009). Eventually, German veterans bring 'Until We Have Faces', the new offering at over 61 minutes in length. It features 10 tracks spanning a variety of different styles. There are elements of classic rock and progressive wizardry, a small portion of reggae, AOR- esque segments plus gentle pop flavor. Evaluating this cleverly-constructed brand like a rock-musical can be an exaggeration, albeit you get the allusion. Conversely, there was no special casting for particular 'spectacle'. The frontman Henrik Wager does a powerful job. Female singer Anja Günther adds a beautiful extra dimension in each line she's presenting. The voice of Thomas Hackmann sounds more at the background. The permanent supervisor, Derk Akkermann, provides some thrilling guitar work combined with the hypnotic keyboard forays. To heighten the attraction, Lutz Günther plays pulsating bass, whilst Jens Beckmann is heard on strong percussion. Overall, 'Until We Have Faces' portrays Saris in the impressive form. If you are a band's staunch fan, you won't be disappointed. But if not - give it a try.