MARCH OF PROGRESS

This is a great album, though I find myself at somewhat of a loss as to what to write about it. This is progressive metal at its best. Damian Wilson does a fantastic job on the vocals, the rhythm section of Johanne James and Steve Anderson are tight, Richard Groom and Pete Morten rock out on guitar and keyboard player Richard West is near perfect at adding the right amount of atmosphere or a blistering solo when needed.

"Ashes" hits you right from the beginning with a solid track showing that Damien Wilson is ready to step into the spotlight once again. On the first bridge, we see the first instance of the signature Threshold harmonies which are scattered throughout the entire album. Keep an ear out for the solos at the end of the song, these guys know how to solo and understand the concept that it's not about how many notes you can play, but the notes that you choose to play.

"Staring at the Sun" features a majestic chorus, showing the atmosphere that Richard West can add. The high strings are near perfect here. Steve Anderson's bass also adds a wonderfully melodic element to the verses in this one.

Each song is fantastic in its own right, after seven or eight listens I don't think I've skipped any songs. The only problem with the release (and the only reason that it didn't get a full five stars) is that many of the songs run together. Each song is wonderful, but only two or three really stand out from the rest. I love the CD and except for the lack of variation.

With that being said, this easily merits a solid four star rating. If you like prog metal in the vein of Queensryche and the less intricate side of Dream Theater, I think you'll like this one.