FROM THE DAYS OF DEUCALION - CHAPTER 2

Ow man, this album is too good to be true! Recently I discovered Dutch proggers Leap Day. Their album From the days of Deucalion, Chapter 1 made a big impression on me. And now Chapter 2 is in my player (for two weeks now) and I just can't stop listening! This is symphonic rock the way I really like it!

The album starts with an instrumental song: Pseudo Science. I recognize it as the track the band used for the trailer on YouTube. It's like the soundtrack of some kind of movie. But it is also an ouverture in a way. Then Amathia starts with very subtile vocals and a beautiful Camelesque part 2. Taurus Appearance is another instrumental song: beautiful themes struggle against almost rude chords...breathtaking and addictive song! Phaeton has a tremendoes groove, but it starts very dramatic ("Am I your son?...."). Very different moods... the song constantly changes like a chameleon..... awesome! Then a Chinese speaking lady tells me the story of emperor Yawho (I'm glad they included the translation) and a very odd song reveals itself. Chinese music flows into a beautiful chorus. God of Wars is a true prog gem with all the ingredients a good progsong (imho) should answer to. And then there is Deucalion. Finally we get to know him. This Greek version of Noah is the subject of the longest track on the album (almost 11 minutes). A real prog epic with great vocals and superb battles between guitar and keys. In the shadow of Death is another beautiful symphonic outburst that really stands out! Ancient Times (Reprise) is the echo of the first track on Chapter 1and a wonderful end to this Deucalion chapter.

Leap Day has done it again! They deliver time and time again with amazing songwriting, with themes that give me goosebumbs each listen and with outstanding musicianship! I can only agree with Aussie-Byrd-Brother that the band is improving everything they already did very well, while also setting the bar very high for not only themselves, but the Neo Prog sub-genre itself. I didn't mention the outstanding artwork and production which is even better than chapter 1 I think. So what else can I do then to rate this album with five well deserved stars!