In The Machine - S/t CD review

In The Machine - S/t CD (Independent Release)

You could discover behind my flattering words on the band’s debut song “Running” that leaked and made me interview the band (read the article here), an anticipation regarding the release if their debut. Well, one year later I am holding in my hand the very first ITM release and my feelings of joy are intense.

The band that features one of my all-time favorite vocalists, Corey Brown, known from his appearance in the always amazing bands Psyco Drama, Magnitude 9, Section XVI, Balance Of Power, Metro Society and others as well released a debut that contains modern and well-structured songs that draw the listener’s attention. US Prog Metal is so alive and kickin’, especially when it’s performed by so experienced and talented musicians.

Corey’s voice is in really good shape. His expression is still passionate, while its melodic lines are once again so wonderful. His passionate and powerful performance is so intense on the songs “For The Last Time”, “Out Of My Head”, “Bury Me”, Running”, “Never Let Go” compositions that I really cannot stop listening to!

In The Machine is a band I am proud of. Their very first album delivers the music that I am fond of. Dark, passionate, full of diverse emotions. To be honest, this is art. And the artists involved in this project know how to create and even wake the listener’s soul.

Corey and the rest of the gang have finally returned to the scene. And this is a great headline for all the fans of the genre. You can purchase their debut and realise by yourself that qualitative music will never disappear as long as band like ITM are contributing such albums!

The CD is available on iTunes, Zune, Amazon.com and CDBaby.com. Band’s web-site: www.itmband.com

Dimitris Starakis

Eumeria - Rebel Mind CD review

Eumeria - Rebel Mind CD (Independent Release)

If someone is familiar with the name Bobby Williamson, then he knows that we deal here with an album that is destined to become classic!
The keyboard player from the mighty Outworld is back with a new band and I feel lucky to enjoy an album that is simply wonderful.
I still remember the day when I obtained Progpower’s IX showcase CD and listened to the opening track. It was titled “Bobby Williamson - Heirs of Peril” and from that day I consider it to be one of the finest anthems in the modern Power/Prog Metal period!

Eumeria is a fully-talented band. Featuring the always amazing Jonathan Tatum, a british singer who is gifted with a wide and harsh range in his voice, the songs are coloured with his clean and melodic vocal expressions. Along with virtuoso guitarist Reece Fullwood, the band transcends the typical barriers and progresses the Power/Prog Metal genre, adding originality and quality with the debut CD.

Harsh guitar sound that leaves you breathless with the ability to play noticeable solos and riffs, while the atmosphere in the album is pompous, emotional and powerful. Keyboards play the same role in this, without leading or staying on the background.

It is so optimistic to witness a band that doesn’t want to be another copycat of the “dinosaurs” of the genre and is brave enough to show the world its musical identity.

Please allow me not to comment each song separately. I think words are poor enough to make you realise what has been created in this album. The celebration of the human inspiration is traced clearly in Eumeria’s debut.

You will be right if you think that I am quite enthusiastic on this review. I really am. In a time full of bands that follow a certain trend that comes and goes, in a period where inspiration is buried under the ability to execute fluently but omitting at the same time the grand idea that makes music so indestructible, only few musicians can dare and create something special. Well, here you have it.

“Rebel Mind” is truly one of the finest albums of the decade. May you celebrate by supporting this wonderful band that searches for a contract (crazy, isn’t it?) and wish to watch them becoming one of the all-time greatest names of the scene.

Band’s web-site: www.eumeria.com

P.S.: Oh, and “Heirs Of Perils” has become “Secret Places” on the CD. How on Earth could someone forget such a fine piece of art? Thank you Bobby for giving back the keyboard sound its strong position in a band!

Dimitris Starakis

Innosense-Outcast CD review

 Innosense-Outcast CD (Steel Gallery Records)

It is so pleasant to follow a band since its beginning and witness its noticeable innovation.
The readers of Magic Starlight zine will definitely remember the review on Innosense’s demo CD that came out three years ago.
Their debut is a wonderful highlight of melodic Progressive Metal, so refreshing, modern and emotional that will definitely satisfy even the most demanding fan of the genre.

The band features one of my picks in vocals over the last years; I have said it before and will repeat it again: Vasilis Georgiou is one of the finest Prog vocalists that appeared in Greece, gifted with a sentimental voice in the vein of Roy Khan, something that add quality and expression in every band he participates in (he is also the singer in Black Fate, check out the review of their debut HERE). The band combined the dark vibes of the music with powerful parts, while the rhythm breaks and the catchy choruses showcases the bright road that that band is ready to follow

Just listen to the brilliant songs “Mystify”, “Release” and the unique ballad “Seasons Of Oblivion” in order to feel the passionate vocal lines, along with the wonderful music. All other seven tracks are so enjoyable, that leave me with no alternative than to name “Outcast” as the highlight debut of the year!

This is how sentimental Progressive Metal should be performed. I an sure that this CD will find its place in every discography that hosts some of the finest works of the genre.
Well done guys for forcing me to say: this is only the beginning of a bright band!

You can order the album through Steel Gallery Records.
Band’s facebook group

Dimitris Starakis

Until Rain - Pandemic EP review

Until Rain - Pandemic EP (Steel Gallery Records)

Now this is a band full of talented youngsters! “Pandemic” is the band’s second release, following their debut “The Reign Of Dreams” that came out a couple of years ago and it showcases the high potential that this band showcases!  Having already a new singer (Yiannis Papadopoulos) and bass player (Bill Gagavouzis) on the camp, they demonstrate their huge talent with an EP that delivers wonderful Progressive Metal, based on brilliant keyboard and piano lines by a wonderful performer named Lefteris Germenlis.
The band was formed in 2004, in Thessaloniki, Greece, by 14-year old schoolmates, Orestis Fikos (ex-Bassist), Lefteris Germenlis (Keyboardist) and Alex Hughes (Drummer). The band’s first name was “Delirium” and in September 2006 they recorded their first demo entitled ‘Season IX’. A few months later, a second demo, entitled ‘Hopes Forever’ was also released and two years later. Τhe band changed its name to “Until Rain” and released its debut CD. Two year after its release, we now witness a huge progression in the band’s ability to compose magnificent songs! The self-titled track that opens the EP is bombastic and powerful, but the real thrill comes with the astonishing, brilliant track titled “In A State Of Great Depression”! This particular song is a masterpiece, with one of the most wonderful choruses and intelligent musical combinations that I’ve listened to lately and proves that Until Rain have entered the right path that leads to worldwide recognition. “Pictures Of The Past” follows and it is equally brilliant, with sentimental vocal lines, brilliant riffs and catchy melodies, while the whole atmosphere is so intense!
The listener can also listen to two radio edits of the songs “Pandemic” and “Departure”, while the EP features also an acoustic version of the highlight song “Adaptability” (originally featured on the debut CD).
Until Rain really filled me with enthusiasm and I am already anticipating their next effort!
You can purchase pandemic through Steel Gallery Records.
 Band’s mySpace profile

Dimitris Starakis

Leviathan - At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow CD review

Leviathan - At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow CD (Independent Release)

Yes, it is true. The 6th album from the gifted Colorado Progsters is a reality and when I threw a quick glance at the album' s credit, I was surprised that Ronnie Skeen wasn't credited as a member or a composer! John Lutzow is now the man behind the compositions, while John Sellers accompanies him in the guitar parts.

So, after this significant change, I was extremely curious to listen to the new stuff. After several spins, the listener can realize that Leviathan are meant to be always unique. The new album is an ideal soundtrack for the cold, rainy winter days and nights.

Sounds that touch the inner self, while the vocal lines are tenderly fit with the melodies, the new CD from the band really contributes a wonderful sample of a genre that remains artistic and free of boundaries. Songs like “Vanity Might Protect”, “Acapello Gold”, “Forsaken, Forgotten, for Nothing” and “Memorized Fairytales” are so emotionally intense and wonderfully structured that satisfy the demanding listener. I would also suggest to pay attention to the solos of the song “Forsaken...” since the strong melodies are a wonderful, dreamy experience!

I also enjoyed the heavier moments of the album, such as the song “Third Rail to the Third World” which begins with an intelligent riff, while the lyrics are pretty inspiring and “politically-active”. The opening track,”Blue Screen of Death-THC EMP part I” is also another highlight, with the sing-a-long chorus and the majestic riff to prove that Leviathan are present again.

The new Leviathan CD includes also a superb instrumental entitled “Acapello Gold” which is definitely one the band’s most wonderful compositions! I really cannot hide my enthusiasm when I witness bands recording strong instrumental and not just another “filler” for their album. Well done guys!

I am pretty sure that the new CD, “At Long Last, Progress Stopped to Follow” will satisfy the fans of the band and will also attract new ones. You can buy the album for $15.00 US (International Shipping included), via Paypal to the following address: inkpenexor@msn.com
Band’s web-site: www.leviathanresurrected.com 

Livesay - Awaken The Giant CD review

Livesay - Awaken The Giant CD (Shredguy Records)

Now this was the big surprise of 2010! I am familiar with Livesay’s previous releases, beginning from the album “Under The Table“ (released on tape format) until the “Darkest Hour” CD. To be honest, Gregg’s albums were missing some grandiose tunes that would establish him as an important composer. But in “Awaken The Giant” things have rapidly changed. A spectacular CD indeed, featuring 8 songs that will definitely satisfy every fan of guitar-driven Hard Rock/Metal music. Gregg delivers two amazing instrumental tracks on the album entitled “Aphasia” and “Dance Of the Egyptian King” and showcases his devotion to Neoclassical Metal music, combined with many eastern influences. It is pure pleasure to listen to such a fine guitarist, in times where virtuosos are still handled as “egomaniacs” from some narrow-minded critics and fans.
Including songs like the bombastic “Tower Of Silence” with a storming riff that bursts into the song and transforms it to a metallic hymn, the splendid  tribute to the unforgettable eastern-influenced tracks “Flesh & Blood”, to the ABSOLUTE Mega Opus titled “The Agonist” (a 12-minute hymn which fairly earns the title of the “Song Of The Year”!), Livesay’s latest effort should receive worldwide success. Featuring singer Dean Sternberg(ex Into Eternity, Toby Knapp) which does a fine job, the band shouts that qualitative and inspiring Metal music is not dead! My enthusiasm is surely intense, since I feel so pleased to listen to this CD again and again!
I believe that “Awaken The Giant” is by far the heaviest and most wonderful Livesay release and I hope that Gregg will continue to compose songs in this very favorite style of mine.
Do not neglect this CD by any means. It is one of the greatest albums of 2010 and a resurrection of a band that has a lot to contribute to the scene! You can buy the album here. Livesay’s mySpace and facebook page.
Dimitris Starakis

Fortress Under Siege – Promo 2010 review

Fortress Under Siege – Promo 2010
 

Now this is an important resurrection for all those nostalgic fans of Greek Power/Progressive Metal. Fortress under Siege are back with a new album, after 18 inactive years! For those who are not familiar with the band’s history, I must remind to all that they formed back in 1992 by Fotis Sotirpoulos (Guitars) and John Vasilakis (Guitars) after the split up of Gladiators (another legendary and qualitative Power metal band that never had a proper release). With the addition of Michael Smeros in vocals and Nick Dedes behind the drum kit, FUS invited bassist Aris Matheakakis and started recordings for their debut EP, which originally came out on tape format, but later released in 1996 as a self-titled mini CD from Metal Mad Music. In the meantime, Vangelis Xatziandreou (Bass) and George Georgiou (Keyboards) joined the band and gave several live performances.
Although inactive since 199,8 FUS continue composing and finally reunited in 2009, with the addition of drummer Spiros Zenebisis on October 2010.
The band released a three-track promo that gives a brief example from their 10-track new CD and they currently searching for a record deal. Their newest creations are sentimental, Power?Progressive Metal samples of their creativity and it’s so wonderful to realise that their talent remain unchanged.
“Deeds Of All Disgrace” begins with a melodic intro, followed by a storming change, while Smeros’ vocals are powerful and melodic, a distinctive trademark that characterize the band. “My Foulest Sin” combines the basic keyboard melody with a fast-paced rhythm section and is quite inspirational, while “Gods Of War” is the heaviest track of all, with grandiose chorus and majestic, pompous parts and wonderful guitar leads.
Currently (December 2010), FUS have finished recording and mixing of their new album.
Some other indicative song names are: , "The Mortal Flesh Of Love", "Gods Of War", "Alexander", "Last Temptation" and "Night Caress".
I believe that every fan of good Power/Prog Metal music should welcome Fortress Under Siege back and encourage them to release soon their comeback CD!  They surely don't deserve getting a bad press, having such wonderful songs! Contact the band: FORTRESS UNDER SIEGE, c/o Ioannis Nikolakopoulos, P.O. Box 29 , GR 19300, Aspropyrgos Attikis, Greece. 
E-mail: fortressundersiege@gmail.com
Band’s Reverb Nation page: http://www.reverbnation.com/fortressundersiege
Dimitris Starakis

Artizan – s/t EP review

Artizan – s/t EP (independent release)

To be honest, this EP can sum up a whole theory on modern Metal music: Minimalistic approach can be intuitive yet refreshing. It’s so encouraging for  the listeners to enjoy three wonderful musical creations of melodic and pompous Power Metal. Artizan showed the world their “manifest”. Drummer Ty Tammeus and vocalist Tom braden, known from their participation in the renowned US Prog metal band Leviathan (during their first EP and Deepest Secrets Beneath” days) really establishes the band’s reputation. Artizan may not follow a definite Progressive route on their musical approach, but focus on catchy songwriting with strong memorable vocal line and riffs. The result is wonderful and all three songs are a pleasure to listen to. Tom’s vocals are strong and contain that distinctive tone that usually follows the guitar line and makes the band’s sound much more solid and focused. I also have to give credit to Jim Morris and his splendid production; the band recorded the song at t Vision Sound, Orange Park, Florida and the mastering was done at Morrisound Studios, Tampa, Florida, USA, so they definitely picked the right option.
The good news also is that the band signed a contract with Pure Steel Records and their debut album is expected to be release in early 2011. So, you can buy their debut EP via their website or via iTunes instead of waiting for the first full-length and really enjoy an extremely promising US metal band!

Dimitris Starakis

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD review

Matthew Mills - The Neoclassical Journey Remastered 2010 CD (Matt Mills Music)

One thing crossed my mind when I got Matthew's fifth solo CD in my hands: "Good to have you back, Man!". For all of us who cannot attend Matthew's shows and guitar clinics, his albums prove that Neoclassical Metal still has some loyal and talented "servants". After I listened to "The Neoclassical Journey", I believe that probably is his best solo effort. The talented virtuoso contributes his finest guitar work in splendid songs like the opener "Thoughts Of Time", which once again highlights his favorite songwriting style: strong, catchy and melodic riffs combined with astonishing guitar cadenzas that established his reputation over the years. "Dark Matter part 2" is deeply emotional, sentimental and European-flavored song, with strong Baroque influences. Matthew reaches the limits of his performance and always tries to set new standards for his favorite musical style. Its difficult to follow a Neoclassical Metal path without being repetitive but Matthew proves this opinion wrong. Just listen to the song "Night Time": Melody and atmosphere combine smoothly and the result is wonderful. For all the above reasons, I cannot stop listening to Matthew's musical creations, even though I am not a guitarist, so that means a lot. 
"The Neoclassical Journey features also two guest appearances: David Shankle (DSG, ex-Manowar) contributes two solos on "Dragon's Fire", while Joe Stump delivers his distinguishable guitar solo in the song "Fire Storm". For all arpeggio fanatics, the closing track of the CD, "Arpeggio Travel part 3" ends Matthew's "arpeggio trilogy" that began in his second album titled "Neoclassical Rock guitar" delivers his insane performance and makes everyone ask for more! "The Neoclassical Journey" is  a highlight of modern Neoclassical Metal, proving that the genre still stands strong. You can buy the album through guitar9.com or digitally download it via iTunes.  Matthew Mill's official web-site

Dimitris Starakis

Arryan Path – Terra incognita CD (Pitch Black Records) CD review

Arryan Path – Terra Incognita CD (Pitch Black Records)

I’ve been following Arryan Path’s career since its early stages and I was fortunate to receive their newest album which should be already considered as the band’s highlight. At the same time, I was curious to find out why this band chose this particular name and I asked the singer of the band, Nicholas Leptos, if the band is connected to any racial segregation theories. Nicholas replied back to me immediately, assuring me that Arryan Path has nothing to do with hate doctrines. I was satisfied to know this, since Magic Starlight ’zine is not associated with extremists and does not support racial hate at all.
“Terra Incognita” begins with one of the finest songs ever composed by the band. “Cassiopeia” is a solid and uplifting Power metal tune, featuring, along with Nicholas’ splendid vocal performance, Vagelis Maranis of Sanvoisen fame! The “vocal duel” is a remarkable effort and really places Cassiopeia among the greatest songs that were released in 2010! The album was recorded and mixed at Maranis Studios in Germany and the band manage to feature Vagelis in the song, while they also gave us the opportunity to realize that he is always in great vocal shape.
    Another favorite of mine is “Open Season”: majestic and triumphant, with wonderful chorus, full of glorious emotion, it definitely brings to mind the finest moments of US Power Metal! The self-titled song of the CD incorporates folk elements of Eastern and Greek music, with the outcome being refreshing and interesting. Moreover, it reflects the intention of the band for broaden mind inspirations and experimentation, something which will not keep them stagnant. “Ishtar” is another pick of “Terra Incognita”, with the Eastern music influences being dominant once again. Some other favorite songs of mine are “Elegy” (melodic, vividly emotional and atmospheric again), “Angel With No Destination” (check out the galloping chorus) and “The Mind” (catchy guitar riff and overall a more simplistic song, yet the same interesting as the others). Every time I listen to an album from the beginning to the end without a single pause or skip, I know it’s a good one. Definitely the best effort from the Cypriots…till the next one (this is a prediction, guys don’t let me down)! Order the CD from their label’s website. Band’s mySpace profile:
Dimitris Starakis