STORIES, SONGS & SYMPHONIES

Titled "The Symphonic Rock Orchestra", Wallenstein, on this, their fourth studio effort, show us that they had not lost track of what makes for a great Wallenstein record, and in the same breath, produce some refreshingly newer creative elements that make Stories, Songs and Symphonies delightful.

The band's previous three records are cerebral, intelligent, classically inspired symphonic prog, and quite frankly, i wasn't so sure they could top, or even equal, those five star efforts. I feel with this one, they very well may not surpass, but come close to equaling, the past greatness. Though in this record, Wallenstein show even more than usual that they can still be progressive, but also instill some important, new musical changes.

Though classically trained keyboardist Jurgen Dollase is still the highlight of the group's instrumental sound, other members shine on this record in a unique sort of way this time around, especially violinist Joachim Reiser.

The music on Stories, Songs and Symphonies is not quite as frenetic as previous records like Blitzkrieg, but instrumentally, they never lose your interest, and there is a cohesive spirit uniting all the songs on this album, so that there is diversity and varied moods and feelings, all right, but all fits together so well.

Mr. Dollase's lead vocals are quite nice- he sings with feeling and emotion, without being excessive, though the band really shine when they are instrumental, a Wallenstein trade mark, really.

Overall, an intelligent, cerebral record that is also delightful and beautiful sounding. Who would want their Wallenstein any other way? Five stars.