DARK MILLENIUM

Many people have argued that this should not come under the name of Psychotic Waltz, as it is just a result of co-operation of the band's two guitarists. I would not agree with that. Although it is not a 'team' effort, and does not sound as any of their studio releases, it still has this 'dark' feeling that P.Waltz used to produce in their albums.

The first part comprises of Brian McAlpine's PENETRALIA, an instrumental 'soundtrack'. Although it has a unique 'dark' sound and some very good moments, it fails to impress. This is mainly due to the fact that there are not many changes of rhythms and the tracks follow a certain slow vibe...

This does not happen in the next two tracks, where the joining forces of Dan Rock and Brian McAlpine remind some of the glory of Psychotic Waltz. Atmospheric tracks with great melodies and amazing guitar work at some points. These two tracks appear also in Dan Rock's DARKSTAR, a band that every P.Waltz needs to check.

The live tracks included in the album are from the band's first era and although the sound is quite bad, their technical abilities and weird composing material is breathtaking. As for the (excellent and unique) covers they selected to include in this compilation, one thing can be said: They continue to prove that they have been pioneers and one of the weirdest bands in progressive metal. Diary of a Madman is Ozzy's strangest song, and the same happens with Black Sabbath's Disturbing the Priest!!!

Overall, an interesting compilation, quite different from a best-of or anything close to that.

Note: This may be an excellent album for P.Waltz fans (like me), but not that interesting for the rest...Thus, 3 stars is the 'fairest' choice...But it's worth giving it a try!!!