JUGGLING 9 OR DROPPING 10

Enchant is definitely not one of these superbands that produce majestic records often and make record critics throw superlatives at them. ''J9 or D10'' however, is one of these albums that can blow you away if you come unprepared... Very solid record, with strong melodies (particularly in refrains), competent rhythm section and intelligent guitar riffs. They blend different music elements so effectively that you cannot easily discover direct musical references for the origins of this album. The only band that comes into mind when I listen to ''J9 or D10'' is Tiles; however, the influence of Rush is not so evident in this occasion.

By far the most important asset in this work is the mere ENERGY throughout; powerful compositions, a 'fresh' and 'new' uplifting sound that is accompanied by the vivid vocals of Ted Leonard, which at times may sound too commercial or even 'cheesy' to most proggers. Although the influences from bands like Dream Theater and Rush are present, the compositional approach of the album does not relate to any of them. Clearly an 'American' sound, ''J9 or D10'' takes indeed a quite 'commercial' approach (possibly even pop at times), as the songs are relatively simple and straightforward with no big surprises and epic intervals. Despite the powerful melodic refrains there is a similar structure to most of the songs, which one might find repetitive or even boring; not the case here if you ask me.

One of the highly interesting features in Enchant's music is the selective use of slightly distorted and clean electric guitars that, at times, remind of Sieges Even and related bands. If you are looking for highlights, I have to suggest the great sequence of Bite my Tongue, Colors Fade, Juggling Knives that mostly represent the overall sound of the album. The lyrical Broken Wave beautifully sums up the story. The album concludes nicely with Know That, an acoustic 'reprise' of What to Say. Unfortunately, I am not fully aware of Enchant's latest albums so as to fully evaluate the importance of this record, but as a 'stand alone' effort this is definitely rewarding for the listener and surely a great improvement from their previous works. If you are keen on 'modern heavy prog', then this is a great addition for your collection.

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