THE FIRST RUN

A well produced progressive hard rock record with a sound that reminds me of the better works of Saga. Well controlled metal guitar in sync with keyboard sounds with pinch as well with symfonic sounds of the neoprogressive pallette. Moreover, Erik ten Bos is a very skilled rock vocalist with powerful high notes.

I must admit, I usually listen to the first five tracks of the album. Beyond the Veil sets the progressive atmosphere of the album; powerfull vocals, great AOR leadguitar, nice rhythm changes. The songs to come are often very catchy and the musicanship is great. Man in the Mirror has a lot of catche themes and a great progression in the opening section. I really like the uplifting 'I'll be there' which reminds me of the energetic stadionrock of Vandenberg. The ballad Open Field suffers from its too enthusiastic performance. On the longer tracks on the second halve of the album the Saga influences become more appearant.

My impression: this would appeal to a lot of neo-progressive and crossover listeners. I kind of like the almost AOR appeal, though the songs don't lack the sophistication of a progressive rock record. Three and a halve stars!

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