V.O.Z.

MAJESTIC is the brainchild of Jeff Hamel, underway with this project for some years. Additionally supported by drummer Mike Kosacek and some reliable male and female vocalists he surely dominates the production with his instruments (guitars, keyboards). I'm not aware of the former recordings - this new double CD 'V.O.Z.' marks a mesmerizing thing in any case - yeah, you bet - the album promises some wonderful experiences .... when you allocate enough time to plunge into the entire thing with care.

The song content is often smooth and melodic, though definitely also heavy at times and provided with a high proportion of psychedelic impressions, thus 'V.O.Z.' represents variety all the way through, entertainment pure. CD1 is reserved for the distinguished title epic, segmented in eleven parts, There might be a concept behind that, mirroring a special journey, apparently even rather dangerous. Yes, some dramaturgy is to smell in between, just take the closing Voyage Ends or Freefall for example, which is comprised of spaced out moments.

The journey arrives the peak with Crossing Meridian -'we are sailing on, on and on ...' - an intriguing refrain is given in between, suitable for singing along. And then - scarcely to be expected - on CD2 Jeff totally comes out of hiding, I surprisingly stumbled upon an awe-inspiring psychedelic triple made of Spirits Dwell, Around The Sun and Hyperbole - wow, this twentyfour minute affair is worthwhile alone, can be perceived as a prog masterpiece per se.

Let it rock! The long runner Red Skies finally gathers pace again and comes with metal riffs as well as nice female vocals. Everything your heart desires - with 'V.O.Z.' Jeff Hamel varies a lot on guitar and keys, comes across many prog genres hereby - well, an ambitious attempt, which definitely works on top of it. This proves him to be a prolific musician and composer. Two suites which should convince many prog fans. A highlight in 2012 for sure - 4.5 stars so far - don't miss the boat!