ZENOBIA

They have something in common with their fellow countrymen RPWL and Blind Ego (who are actually related) and also with Subsignal/Sieges Even (also related). Although it has to be said both these combined comparisons are somewhat rougher edged in style. Zenobia is a bit softer and to make the related bands picture complete, Zenobia has slight relationship with Tea for Two even though this is just by sharing the same bass player (Uwe Haass).

I happen to own a disc by Tea for Two by the way which was a huge disappointment for me but Zenobia is obviously the better band in my opinion. The album starts with an epic lasting about a quarter of an hour. This track starts pretty impressive with blistering guitar showing the band means business here. The rest of the song isn't poor by any means either but it would go too far to state this is one of the best epics in my collection. Just very good is the best qualification for this one (3,75*). Next three tracks are not really of the same caliber to be honest (3,25-3,5 and 3,25) but I wouldn't want to slate them either. Next up is the multi-layered epic Meet your Maker (33:11) which is all in all a bit uneven in quality. On average I would rate it 3,5 * or anywhere near. Again, pretty good but nothing mindblowing at any point. A remix of second song Moonstone Sky rounds the whole thing off and also here I can't go into raptures for if you're not able to make 6 different songs on one album it's not quite an optimal performance I feel.

So all in all a good/very good album just about falling short of the honorable verdict "excellent". But it's pretty close. Zenobia is recommended for lovers of both heavy and calmer neo prog. They made a good mix of that with Delayed. 3,5 stars is the right score.