LIFELINE

After the previous masterpiece Walk in Mindfields (2005) Ivanhoe's 2008 release Lifeline features them once more with feeling. Being the tremendous gemstone that Walk in Mindfields is, Ivanhoe have removed quite a few cuts from their design template and have created a more rounded experience with more half-ballads and less straight neckbreakers. Nevertheless it creates much needed open space for the musicians who are free to explore other pastures of progressive music.

The album has a rocky start with Lifeline being maybe the weakest number of them all and it needs a few hearing sessions until one can hum along easily even without the music playing. This goes on until the listener stumbles over the awe inspiring 'Angel's Hologram', a masterpiece of a ballad. Vocalist Mischa Mang wrings himself out to the last drop for this song. Earcandy. Noteworthy: after Angel's Hologram you're truly reminded of the days where you did have to turn the disc because the second part of Lifeline returns us to the pastures of progressive metal even though the pendulum never swings into the degrees of raw display of power that Walk in Mindfields displayed. 'Time Machine' picks up the pace a bit, 'You'll Burn' broods in darkness and finally 'Cheops' crowns the record in symphonic virtuosity.

Good record - very good record. I expected Walk in Mindfields Part 2 though. 4 stars, 8/10