CELESTIAL ENTRANCE

For me, this is a true masterpiece. I know not everyone will agree, as they are a bit derivative of Dream Theater, Symphony X and Queensryche. However, the overall product is so excellent, I can't in good concience give it any less than 5 stars.

Muscially, the arrangements are excellent, providing just the right amount of crunch, orchestration, melody, and complexity. They have definitely stepped it up a notch in terms of progginess from their debut. The highlight of the album for me is the 2-part instrumental "Return to the Magic of Childhood." This composition is absolutely perfect in every respect, the quintessential prog-metal instrumental. I'd take this one over any of Dream Theater's instrumentals such as Stream of Consciousness or Ytse Jam. The guitar work is outstanding, there are tons of different movements, each building off the last while never losing the gorgeous melodies, and finishing in an incredible flourish. I love it!

The other things that make a great album are all present. Excellent production, excellent vocals that aren't cookie cutter, great themes that are reminiscent of the Stargate movie (ancient Egypt with a cosmic twist). Go ahead and give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!