BURN THE SUN

A Norwegian Prog Metal super-group isn't anything you hear about every day. ARK is the exception although all the members aren't from Norway. The line- up is really amazing: Jorn Lande (COMPANY OF SNAKES), Tore Østby (CONCEPTION), John Macaluso (TNT), Randy Coven (Steve VAI, Steve MORSE) and Mats Olausson (Yngwie MALMSTEEN). They released their self-titled debut album in 1999, and "Burn The Sun" is the newly released follow up.

The vocalist Jorn Lande has a powerful voice with great diversity. He can sing like David COVERDALE, Ronnie James DIO, Peter GABRIEL, Ian GILLAN, Freddie MERCURY, Robert PLANT, STING, or anyone else. Tore Østby is a real guitar virtuoso and Mats Olausson doesn't need any further presentation.

I can't come up with anything negative to say about this album, because it has everything a good Prog Metal album should have: good compositions, complex arrangements, outstanding musicians, intricate rhythmical patterns and strong melodies. I don't think I have been that surprised by a band in this genre since I first heard A.C.T.'s debut album "Today's Report" in 1999. ARK has actually created their own style by blending Prog Metal, Progressive Rock, Neo-Classic Hard Rock and Heavy Metal. I know it doesn't sound that unique, but you have to hear it to understand what I mean. The closest comparison that comes to mind is a mix between A.C.T., MAGNITUDE 9, QUEEN and THRESHOLD.

This is one of the best albums released in the new millennium. It's creative, diverse, innovative and intelligent music, and it deserves to be a modern classic. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!