ARILYN

Mixing influences from neo-prog as well as electronica pioneers such as Tangerine Dream in the use of synths, commercial rock hooks like ones made by fellow Germans Sylvan with distinct influences from progressive metal, and adding some space rock elements to the mix the tunes here - apart from the ballads - are highly intriguing and fascinating stuff. Hard to classify as such - but interesting.

Slightly weak vocals and some rather plain ballads are the sole negative aspects here; and an album worth checking out by fans of melodic rock with lots of synths and slight progressive metal influences. Personal highlights: When Worlds Collide, Alter Ego - both of them top notch tunes.

"Beta" is a short 47 second song with spacey synths and a monologue. This appears to be a nod to the past before they get into the Neo-Prog style they have now embraced. "Chaos" is perhaps the best song on the record. With a good contrast between the vocal lines with synths and drums, and the uptempo, heavy instrumental passages. The guitar 5 minutes in is great. "Rise "N" Sorrow" has some variety and a good low end sound with guitar and bass. As well as a relaxed sound with keys. Some strange vocals too.

"Reality" is a mid paced song with vocals and drums leading the way. Lots of sax that I usually like but not here, it just doesn't sound right. This is a good catchy tune though. "Run" is dominated by keys and drums. Some minor riffing as well. "Fall From Here" has some more sax but the intense vocals are the focus. "Unreal" starts slowly before it becomes an uptempo tune. "Break Out" is a radio friendly song that is very commercial sounding. "Time Went Backwards" has a lot of synths and the instrumental interlude is good. "Virtual Reality" the title track is a ballad. "Encourage Me" just doesn't work for me.

This really sounds like music I would hear on the radio. Very commercial, radio friendly songs for the most part. The singer is good but no where as good as the singer for SYLVAN who he slightly reminds me of. Maybe it's my taste in music more then anything else. I can't recommend this album, fans only.