VIRTUAL REALITY

This is ARILYN's second release. Their first record was in the Spacerock genre while on this one "Virtual Reality" they have changed styles completly. Now they have more in common with fellow German's SYLVAN who they have perhaps tried to emulate.

"Beta" is a short 47 second song with spacey synths and a monologue. This appears to be a nod to the past before they get into the Neo-Prog style they have now embraced. "Chaos" is perhaps the best song on the record. With a good contrast between the vocal lines with synths and drums, and the uptempo, heavy instrumental passages. The guitar 5 minutes in is great. "Rise "N" Sorrow" has some variety and a good low end sound with guitar and bass. As well as a relaxed sound with keys. Some strange vocals too.

"Reality" is a mid paced song with vocals and drums leading the way. Lots of sax that I usually like but not here, it just doesn't sound right. This is a good catchy tune though. "Run" is dominated by keys and drums. Some minor riffing as well. "Fall From Here" has some more sax but the intense vocals are the focus. "Unreal" starts slowly before it becomes an uptempo tune. "Break Out" is a radio friendly song that is very commercial sounding. "Time Went Backwards" has a lot of synths and the instrumental interlude is good. "Virtual Reality" the title track is a ballad. "Encourage Me" just doesn't work for me.

This really sounds like music I would hear on the radio. Very commercial, radio friendly songs for the most part. The singer is good but no where as good as the singer for SYLVAN who he slightly reminds me of. Maybe it's my taste in music more then anything else. I can't recommend this album, fans only.