BOOK OF THE DEAD

The first four minutes of the opening track are ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE. Very few times did I live such an experience. These are phenomenal moments. Lush keyboards, gorgeous violin and a great guitar solo which is a full carbon-copy of a Steve Howe one. I guess you can call this heaven.

Shaun has been the vocalist of a Genesis tribute band. So, don't be surpised, when he enters the scene you will be transported in the early seventies, but with a modern sound.

The listener is surrounded by the powerful sound which fully embraces you. The dialog between the violin and the guitar is truely remarkable. Imposing keys fit so perfectly that you almost don't notice them (unless they are on the front line).

"Infinite Voyage" superbly summarizes the neo-prog genre; although it is so symphonic and melodramatic...It is indeed a fantastic voyage in time and sounds. Instrumental sections will transport you to the utmost joy, believe me ! Vocals are more a recitation and adds even more grandeur and solemnity to the whole. You can easily imagine an Egyptian priest performing his religious acts.

A great symphonic prog epic. All the way through. SUBLIME. Maybe a bit too much "Yes" oriented musically. Can you imagine Yes with Gabriel , Well, you almost get them here !

Well, after this masterpiece, you need a deep breath of fresh air to go on with the album. Actually, the probability that you want a replay is very much probable. And it is probably the most advisable thing to do because the other parts of the album are not of the same caliber (but is it possible ?).

Don't worry, none of the songs are bad but sound just average in comparison. "The Edge Of Light" is almost a shorter version of "Infinite" while "Aten" is a quiet and beautiful instrumental song. Bass playing is seriously Chris Squire influenced, to say the least at the end of the song. My second fave is the closing number "Claok Of Antiquity". It is IMO, the most Genesis-like song. Again, it is a beautiful example of how great this band sounds. Neo-prog ? Symphonic ? Great music !

There won't be anymore albums from this line-up since Shaun passed away in 2003, soon after he had recorded his vocal parts. Still, K2 will re-unite in 2006 for ONE gig in LA. Vocalist was Josh Gleason from "The Waiting Room" (another Genesis tribute band). No more news about another release so far, but who knows ?

Four stars.