REDEMPTION

The first incarnation of REDEMPTION features Rick Mythiasin on vocals, Jason Rullo (SYMPHONY X) on drums, Bernie Vesailles (FATES WARNING) on lead guitar and the leader of the band Nick Van Dyk on various instruments including keys and bass. There are guest appearances from Michael Romeo (SYMPHONY X) on orchestration, Mark Zonder (FATES WARNING) on drums and Ray Adler (FATES WARNING) doing vocals on one song, and backing vocals as well. So as you might imagine the musicianship is of the highest quality but the production and or mixing of this record leaves one wondering why they didn't bring someone in from outside to do the job. This album just doesn't sound right at times, especially the vocals which are mixed lower then the rest of the band.

The first 4 songs are all part of the "Desperation" suite.This is based on the novel of the same name by Stephen King. It opens with about a minute and a half of orchestration courtesy of Michael Romeo before the heavy riffs and drums come in. Ray sings the second part of this suite (he is now their full time vocalist) as synths and keys are added. Some great scorching guitar as well from Bernie. "Nocturnal" is a guitar driven track full of riffs and solos. Nice.

"Window To Space" is my favourite song on this record. So many tempo and mood shifts, this song has it all. "As I Lay Dying" features Zonder on drums and his presence is felt throughout. The vocals are better here and the guitars are excellent. "Something Wicked Comes This Way" is based on the novel of the same name by Ray Bradbury. It's a hard and heavy 24 minute song with some outstanding instrumental work.

I almost feel cheated with this release especially when the follow up "The Fullness Of Time" sounds so amazing. This is still a good release though despite the sound quality.