NEVERDREAM

Here we have another tragically overlooked title currently residing in Prog Metal, and while that placement may be accurate for the band as a whole, this is an epic concept album that would be of most interest to modern RPI, symphonic, and even crossover fans. While I have not heard their first four albums, this fifth album by the veteran band is what I would called "metal-tinged" progressive rock with all Italian vocals. It has its heavy moments and guitar-shred passages, but rarely did I feel like it was a primarily metal album. I'd say it's more like a metal band dipping their toe back into the roots of prog traditions while trying to tell the conceptual story about the horrors of slavery. It is very well done and should not be missed if you enjoy groups like VIII Strada, a band I once referred to as "power-RPI." Not exactly RPI, not exactly traditional symphonic metal, but robust, powerful, metal-informed, and benefitting from the power and passion of the Italian language and musical tradition.

The acoustic guitar with accordion instrumental is a lovely opening and introduction to where we are headed. When the Italian vocals enter with piano, it sounds like it could be Banco almost! Majestic, mournful, gorgeous. Enter the huge electric guitar sounds in the second track. I'll add here this is a more guitar-driven album than keyboard, keys being used in a more background role, though they certainly provide richness throughout. The lead guitar work varies from Petrucci-level shred all the way to classical, nylon-stringed delicacy. There are power-chord-driven rockers to crossover art rock sections to the lovely, diverse interludes. Vocals, both male and female, are superb. The 12-minute "Barnum" is a show-stopper, and many of the songs have the muscular, elaborate blend you might get from Epica. It just feels like grand storytelling willing to use every weapon in the sling. The only downside to me was that the production pushed the bass farther to the background than I like, but it's a minor quibble. Recommended.

However, the sound quality is just too bad for this to really get intriguing. Muddy, fuzzy and indistinct; this is more of a demo of yesteryear than a self-released album as such in that department.

Those who don't mind third rate sound and mix might find this one worthwhile to explore though; as the band have many nice and intriguing moments in their creations.