BLOOM

Following in the wake of (the exceptional, and should most certainly be included in the collection of any prog-metal fan) "The Tide, The Thief & River's End" (Which remains as one of my all-time top 10 favorites), Caligula's Horse comes back with another wonderfully enjoyable epic: Bloom.

Truth be told; when I first gave the album a run-through, I was only going to give it 3.5 to 4 stars, as I guess I was expecting "The Tide" part II, and how does a band follow up on one of your top top albums ever?!?! - It should be noted that I have been a great admirer of this band since the "Colossus" EP & "Moments From Ephemeral City" Albums, but "The Tide" just knocked me right out of my shoes, so to speak...

This was an absolutely unfair way for me to approach this album, which is (upon subsequent listenings) showing Caligula's Horse doing exactly as they should be: maturing, growing, and expanding their vocabulary. This album is truly BRILLIANT!!!

Everything on this album has its place and it is placed correctly, indeed. The songwriting and production are top-notch, and the playing by all members is absolutley flawless, add to that the vocals of Jim Grey soaring majestically above it all, and you have another Caligula's Horse masterpiece!

This is going to have to go on my 5 star most highly recommended albums to all of you out there in progarchives land that are fans of progressive metal as I certainly consider "Bloom" to be Essential: a masterpiece of progressive rock music.

As always, your actual mileage may vary... Grace and peace, Cylli Kat