INTO THE ELECTRIC CASTLE

Arjen Anthony Lucassen is the man behind the mask writing performing and producing a sensational "Space Opera" of lasting quality and musical beauty. This aggressive musical project spans 2 long CD's and covers a lot of ground as Lucassen's space concept album is unfolded to the listener in a chapter by chapter approach. We are navagated throughout the story by the narration of P Daltry (Kaleidoscope) who into's many of the songs with his stylistically thematic prose. The most remarkable aspect of this epic album for me is clearly the cast of a thousand he has secured on this album... FISH (MARILLION), Damian Wilson (THRESHOLD), Edward Reekers (KAYAK), Rene Merkelback (GOREFEST), Ton Scherpenzeel (TAURUS, KAYAK, CAMEL), Thijs v Leer (FOCUS) Clive Nolan (PENDRAGON, ARENA) and Edwin Balogh (OMEGA). Musical influences range from neo-prog to hard rock but overall delivers a solid and highly well crafted music offering some great moments. The voices have been well cast as the album contains a nice variety of vocal tones and harmony. Lucassen himself is responsible for all the grand guitar work found on this album as well as other instrumentation (Mellotron, mandolin, bass, minimoog and organ). Considering the length of the album I find this a nice varied listen from start to finish and never get bored as so much is always going on. Album also contains some nice art work with a nice booklet to help the listener follow along and get all out of this album. A most enjoyable and adventurous listen.