NINE

Norway's prog scene has seen some interesting acts emerge. From Black Metallers Enslaved & Borknagar taking extreme metal to the prog side and bands like Leprous now taking the firm interest

This album is very different to their first two albums, mainly due to the more melodic style which the band has now infused into their style. I'm not saying there was no melody before, but on this album, the melody is definitely a major highlight on this release. In fact, the highlight on melody is such a massive point that most of the songs give off a poppy vibe.

The album does bode a lot of interesting moments and return to forms, but this is definitely a step in the right direction for these guys, and really bodes well for the future.A lot of people always give bands like these guys a bad name, mainly because they sound like Dream Theater. Now let's get it clear. Dream Theater are the world's biggest Progressive Metal band. Just cause these guys play prog metal doesn't mean they are a rip off. Of course there would be similarities, they are in the same genre, but these guys aren't a copycat band.

The opening epic "Architect Of Fortune" is definitely one of the best tracks on the album. The album's longest song, it is definitely one of the better tracks on the album. With an intro that sounds like Opeth jamming with Dream Theater. The song does progressive into a rather interesting epic, with some brilliant instrumental work. The lyrics of the song also paint a interesting picture and bring up a lot of topics including religion, God and humanism.

"Namaste" is a rather interesting track. With some rather interesting rhythms in the verse, it really is one of the most original prog metal songs I've heard in a while.

One of the most interesting songs has to be "Reach Within." Pretty much a cheesy pop song, but it works well. You may be humming this song for years, so...a warning for those with sensitive ears.

One of the most 'metal' songs on the album has to be the track "Used." Showing the band's more heavier sound, this song is definitely one of the album's most kick ass moments.

The album's second epic "Burn After Reading" is another interesting track. Like the opener, it has a lot of diversity throughout it, especially with a very nice acoustic opening.

The closing track "Last Goodbye" is a rather interesting song. Lyrically, the song deals with saying goodbye to someone, and it's rather good, but also rather cheesy at the same time. Michael's vocals really do shine in this song. The ending is very beautiful as well.

In conclusion, this is something different, and I rather enjoyed it. This really isn't best prog metal album ever, but this is something a bit different. If you like good songwriting with some amazing musicians playing, then I would recommend giving this album a listen.

7.6/10

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