JOURNEY THROUGH THE HIDDEN GARDENS

OK, I appear to be the first to review this CD, and it is a proud moment for sure! At this time, I've only listened to the first 5 tracks, but they so impressed me that I feel compelled to begin throwing accolades their way! The opener, Balance Of Creators, is a tour de force.........it sets the table beautifully for the rest of this release. Starting out, you immediately notice the maturity and care that went into the songwriting. Spanish acoustic guitar tastefully layered over synths leads the listener into a veritable clinic in progressive songwriting.......incredibly complex arrangements, odd time signatures, softer passages allowing the heavier passages to breath and musicianship that, quite frankly, is on a par with the upper echelon of the genre. PA list this as Neo-Prog but I believe this is firmly steeped in the progressive metal discipline. The rhythm section (bass & drums) lead the twisting and turning arrangements very capably, with the drummer just flat-out smoking! The lead guitarist lays down very tasteful lines throughout each song, and when soloing, let fly with a blistering torrent of technical fretwork that is on a par with the premier axemen in the field. This belongs alongside such talent as Enchant, Lemur Voice, Hourglass and Dream Theater. Lofty praise, but it does! You MUST acquire this CD! It is absolutely one of the best progressive albums I've ever heard (and I listen to a TON of this stuff!). I've only elaborated on the first track, but like I said, 5 tracks in, there is not one dull moment....not one! Trust me here, just snag this CD......this band is incredible!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PS..........in response to the PA warning about using 1 and 5 star ratings sparingly, i do not hesitate to give this 5 stars.........it IS that good!