BOOK OF THE DEAD

This album sounds to me like a mix of Citizen Cain, UK, Genesis, Symphonic Slam.. I can hear excellent solo by Holdsworth and a flavor of Eddie Jobson's style of violin playing - played right here by Yvette Devereaux. The opening track "Chapter 1 : Infinite Voyage" (23:25) seems so grandiose with long epic, composed in a neo progressive style. Unfortunately the movement from one segment to another does not seem natural and they sound like "being forced" to fit into the overall music. There are excellent solos of violin and guitar but they don't seem to form excellently as a cohesive composition. This does not mean that it's not a good track. The vocal quality is similar to Cyrus of Citizen Cain or Peter Gabriel - a bit softer.

"Chapter 2 : Mirror to the Spirits" (6:54) seems like symphonic prog composition relying on keyboard as main structure. As first track this one is a simple composition with slow-medium tempo. "Chapter 3 : The Edge of Light" (7:03) is an excellent track with nice violin solo and soaring organ sounds. "Chapter 4 : Aten (Window of Appearences)(3:22)" is an ambient music exploring keyboards and bass solo. "Chapter 5 : Cloak of Antiquity" (5:54) concludes the album in faster tempo with excellent composition combining violin, drums and keyboards.

This album would favor those who love Marillion and those who love neo prog style.Keep on proggin' ..!

Peace on earth and mercy mild - GW