REMEDY LANE

Pain of Salvation are quite an eclectic band, and, as such, have albums that I both regard as among the greatest ever released, while others I despise with a passion as deep as the Pacific. I'm happy to say, Remedy Lane numbers among the former. I'd even go so far as to call it not only their best album, but one of the greatest works of the 21st century.

It must be said that Pain of Salvation is not a stereotypical prog band. On Remedy Lane, songs never go on long winded solo flights of fancy, the songs always naturally flowing as one cohesive whole, and each leaving its own unique imprint on the album's sonic landscape. Despite the infrequent rehash of a musical riff, such as the one that opens Ending Theme, and can also be found in the short instrumental that shares its name with the album, they are always used in a different context, breaking new ground musically.

The driving force behind the band, Daniel Gildenlow's vocals perfectly complement the music in every way. His strained performance evoke the entire range of human emotion. It is safe to say that this band wouldn't be what it is without him at the helm, vocally, musically, lyrically.

However, the unique sound of every song to be found here often does take getting used to. This album can take multiple plays to reveal its magnificence. However, after its true value is found, it has almost eternal replay value. I would be hard pressed indeed to find even a single fault amidst the gems on display here.