DEMO 2005

It is interesting that at time of writing, a visit to the band's official website reveals that they are actively seeking a lead singer who can sing " with a pretty high range. . aggressive vocals, a la James Labrie from Dream Theater". This is with a view to realising their first official album which is nearing completion.

What we have here are a further four instrumental demo tracks from this internet based project. In the way of modern bands such as Kino and the late "Transatlantic", the music is recorded separately by each member or guest and brought together later. Thus while the music is largely improvisational, it does not result from jams as such.

Since the tracks here are without vocals, except for some brief narrative on "Forsaken", we must take them for what they are. On that basis, there is a substantial improvement here from the "Demo 2003" release, these tracks stand up much better as instrumental pieces, not merely backing tracks. The Dream Theater/Metallica etc. influences are clear from the outset, with heavy base lines and speedy guitar. There is however more of a variety here, with "Floating" featuring some tasteful keyboard accompaniment, and "The Imponderable Land" switching pleasantly between softer acoustic sections and heavy bass driven riffs.

The final track, "Black sail" has the basis for a good prog metal epic. All it needs are some vocal sections perhaps. A fine closer though.

Certainly not one for the Symphonic Prog brigade, but those who feel that Explosions in the Sky would benefit from some virtuoso lead guitar should enjoy this immensely.

All the tracks are available for download or listening to on the band's official website, or from links contained therein.