THE MAGICAL MYSTERY MACHINE (CHAPTER TWO)

Engines are running in full load here! They are offering a powerful attitude in any case. Constituted by multi-instrumentalists Stefan Altzar and Samuel Granath the project evolved to a real band, at least since they opened the 'The Magical Mystery Machine' series in 2020. And so ex-Pain Of Salvation member Daniel Magdic (guitars, keyboards) and bassist Noah Magnusson are not simply supporting again with their instruments. Moreover, at least concerning this Chapter 2, all the credits are assigned to the complete band. Hailing from Sweden the quartet is offering a consistent flow composed of nine appealing songs. The niveau is constantly on a high level, not always a matter of course regarding other productions. Very nice cover art, yet once more contributed by Richard Dearing. The entire look and feel is referring to a Sci-Fi concept. This is based on, respectively connected to current issues in our society of course.

'Some people wanna be free, some people wanna be ruled by someone ...' context-wise Cora and Jareth, the latter in between gets imprisoned by the 'Protectors Of The Universe" organization, are still collecting the essence of humanity. Good luck you both! If I should highlight any particular track, well, let's take Ghostfires, highly melodic, this one makes my day especially. I Am The Chosen One (And I Like It) offers a straightforward groove and shredding guitar riffs, close to (prog) metal. Finally, concerning the playing time knocking at the 10 minute border, It's a Start, Not the End makes you expecting more. A worthy conclusion featuring Altzar's fine singing voice. Partially sounding close to the likes of Pinn Dropp, Brother Ape, The Cyberiam, Hillward, to name a few, this album certainly is a pleasant well produced listening experience, especially for prog fans who are feeling comfortable on the heavier side of life.