Artist: BOOK OF REFLECTIONS
Album: BOOK OF REFLECTIONS (CD)

Year: 2004
Media type: CD

Here we go again with another all star project of a more underground nature. You will really have to know your bands and musicians here to know these guys. BOR features ivory tickler extraordinaire Vitalij Kuprij (ARTENSION), guitarist Lars Eric Mattsson, solo artist Hubi Meisel (EX-DREAMSCAPE) along with other folks from CONDITION RED, WINTERLONG and SECTION A. Since this is a release that pretty much came out of left field, I think a brief history of this project is needed.

Guitar virtuoso Lars Eric Mattsson was approached by an Asian company to put something spectacular. Once all of the special members were chosen, the CD came to be. Thank God! For once, the CD doesn't open up with an intro. “Phoenix“ guns head first right through your speakers. It's neo-classical Power Metal at its finest. This isn't overly complicated or highly majestic. It's up beat and just right. The guitar solos here are tough as nails while the drums just pound away. The neo-classical keyboard work is inserted here as well, but it's not overkill. Now, there are four singers here and am not quite sure who this is, but his voice is strong, manly and powerful. What an energetic song we have here.

“Guardian Of Time“ is another explosive tune with more power chord action and there are even some string arrangements tossed in here, but they are very faint and you must listen closely to hear them. Once again, the guitar strutting of Lars and Rusty Cooley prove to be a highpoint. I finally recognize the first voice on this CD. Hubi Meisel does a killer performance on “Tearing Down.“ Hubi has an intriguing set of lung because they are very distinctive and he sings high, but not quite like Halford or anyone like that. However, just as quickly he can go from high to mid range and add a little grit to them if he wants to. Once again, the jet propelled guitar solos are a stand out and this track is just loaded with power. All of the vocalists on here get to sing on more than one song on this concept CD. Everything on here is superb. The production is a knock out. The musicianship is simply flawless and the compositions are just right. There is nothing overkill on here. There is just the right amounts of technicality, melodies, catchiness, neo-classical piano and string arrangements.

This may not be as well known as the Sacha Paeth/Miro AINA project or AYREON, but this one deserves to be heard because there will be absolutely no regrets about it. This is a CD that everyone can enjoy. Spread the word!

TRACKLIST:

01 Phoenix
02 Guardian Of Time
03 Going Through The Emotions
04 Tearing Down
05 Slippin' Away
06 Only The Truth
07 Child Of The Rainbow
08 You're Not Alone
09 Book Of Reflections
10 Let It Go
11 Blood From A Stone