THE SAGA

When I first saw this CD on the music store shelf I thought they were some power metal band from Germany. The cover and the title were like those kind of bands that were all over the place in the late 90´s. So I was quite surpised when I was told they were in fact a prog outfit from Holand, based around the membrs of the band Maryson. I got curious enough to hear (and eventually purchase) the record. And it was quite different from their former group, no doubt.

Ice plays a kind of melodic prog metal with strong AOR tendencies (more prog than metal, though), and some symphonic bits here and there. It takes some time to digest this massive epic and the singer may not be evryone´s cup of tea. Of course all the musicians are very good and the production is excellent (a bit too polished maybe). There are some great instrumental passages, with very well placed guitars and keyboards lines. I can´t point out no highlights nor real lows. I think Ice is very promising and I hope they develop their sound even more.

Quite strong debut. If you´re into melodic prog then The Saga is a good pick.

Rating: something between 3 and 3,5 stars.