FLESH

This was recorded at the same time as "Bridge" and the band was originally going to release them at the same time but then decided to stagger the release dates. This one is much mellower than "Bridge' with a lot of ballad-like tracks. For me this isn't in the same class as "Bridge" on several levels, but the title track alone makes it worth a listen.

"And Still It Bleeds" opens with piano as cello arrives quickly followed by a crushing sound. This will be one of the few times other then on the title track we'll hear this kind of power. It settles in as vocals come in on the scene before 1 1/2 minutes. The chorus is catchy. Themes are repeated. We get a calm with fragile vocals 6 1/2 minutes in. Cello ends it. "Already Dead" opens with percussion, vocals and piano. Guest female vocals arrive. Full sound before 2 minutes with dual vocals.

"Pictures Of You" is the best one so far. Once it gets going the percussion and guitar sounds good. Piano becomes prominant. Touching lyrics as well. "Flesh" is over 14 minutes and it takes 6 minutes before the heaviness arrives but it's worth the wait. The heavy and lighter sections are contrasted very well. Great song. "Missing From The Chain" has an orchestral-like intro as fragile vocals come in with violin. Cool lyrics too in this ballad. "The River" opens with piano as drums and vocals come in. The guest female vocalist is back. Themes are repeated. "Half As Bad" features more piano and vocals. More great lyrics too. "Back In Sight" opens with some atmosphere before the guitar starts to soar. Vocals a minute in. Some heaviness 4 1/2 minutes followed by some excellent guitar.

Good album but after hearing "Fantasma" and "Bridge" it's a little disappointing.