ONIRIC METAL

LALU is the project of keyboardist Vivien Lalu. Some noteable members of the band include Martin LeMar from TOMORROW'S EVE on vocals and Ryan Van Poederooyen the drummer for Devin Townsend. I must admit the vocals bug me somewhat because he reminds me of David Coverdale at times. Even if I liked the vocals the music here while outstanding at times just doesn't do much for me overall.

"Yesterdayman" opens heavily with pounding drums. Keys then vocals join in as it settles down. It kicks back in before 3 minutes then settles once more. "Wolven Eyes" is fairly heavy with deep vocals. It settles with keys and reserved vocals before 2 minutes. A guitar solo follows as it kicks back in. It's ok. "Windy" opens with fragile vocals and keys. Synths come in. It does get a little fuller. Not a fan of this one at all. "Night In Poenari" kicks in around a minute to an uptempo and heavy soundscape. Vocals after 2 1/2 minutes then it calms right down. Not for long as a stampede of drums comes in. Contrasts continue.

"Moonstruck (The Soulish Element)" opens with some atmosphere. Keys before a minute and vocals follow. "Timestop" features more atmosphere. It kicks in after 1 1/2 minutes but it's fairly laid back as reserved vocals join in. This is a catchy and relaxed section. The tempo picks up before 5 minutes then settles back. "Star Watcher" is spacey to start.It kicks in when he screams and keys galore follow. It's ok. "Potboy:The Final Fantasy" is the over 18 minute closer and the best track. This sounds way better as we get some Metal ! Some spoken word samples 1 1/2 minutes in then it kicks back in heavily. Great sound 10 1/2 minutes in.The rest of the track is hit and miss. Not a fan of all the piano at one point.

This has it's share of good moments but I can barely muster 3 stars.