COSMIC COMEDIAN

The sixth album produced by a Swedish trio that originally started under the moniker Johnny Engström Band. Not a sensation probably, but definitely worth an extra note, since 2008 they are releasing music offered by exactly the same line up, what I can see. DEAD AND SPACE is consisting of ... mastermind Johnny Engström (guitar, vocals) of course ..., plus Niklas Högberg on the bass, and finally drummer Galle Johansson. Although not having heard any of their prior efforts yet I'm inclined to declare this one belonging to their best productions however. This because they are offering great accessible compositions here, coming with a flavour in other ways contributed by the likes of Rush, Anyone, Evergrey for example.

'I'll catch you if you fall ...' shifting mood, clever refrain including sing along appeal, coming close to a perfect melodic heavy prog tune the opener Falling turns out to be my favourite. The following The Other Side is nearly knocking at the 10 minute door, one can note the appearance of symphonic keyboards with bombast appeal, also an ambitious guitar solo, fine! Some songs like Night Drive and Magic Wand are stepping out of the row a bit, while equipped with a stronger mainstream rock stamp. Okay, summed up, this is not overly original as such, but with 'Cosmic Comedian' they are having a recommended matter in supply anyhow. I would say predominantly due to the obvious song writing skills, which comes apparent again and again. 3.5 stars.