IN SEARCH OF TRUTH

Evergrey are a band from Sweden who has found an own sound in the overpopulated progressive power metal genre. Now they have been signed to the German InsideOut label and released their third album "In Search Of Truth", the follow up to their magnificent "Solitude, Dominance, Tragedy" album from 2000. It's a concept album about a guy who, without knowing it, has been abducted by aliens since he was five years old. But he slowly begins to find out what has happened to him.

Tom S Englund are a skilled composer, technical guitarist and a strong vocalist who's voice suites Evergrey well. Patrick Carlsson is a hard- hitting and energetic drummer, and the only original member left together with Englund. They have found a new keyboard wizard in Sven Karlsson (from Embraced) and a new guitar virtuoso in Henrik Danhage. Finally they have recruited a new bass player named Michael Håkansson (also from Embraced). The album is masterly produced by King Diamond guitarist Andy La Rocque.

The music doesn't differ that much from the previous album, but the sound has been perfected. There are still those heavy powerful riffs, good melodies and strong vocals. You can't tell that this is a new band with all three new members. It's as tight as if they have played together for 10 years. The music is a mix between Dream Theater, In Flames, Queensryche and Symphony X.

"In Search Of Truth" has potentials to be a classic in this genre. It's recommended that you listen to the album extensively to fully appreciate it. Some tracks don't live up to the overall high standard, but all in all this is a real jewel.