Things have been rather calm on the new releases front lately, which gives time to listen to a lot of the stuff that desperately lies around crying for attention.
I have and am still more than busy at my new job, so I haven't really had time to write a lot recently.Hopes are that things will clear up in the near future.
Here's a short opinion of a bunch of more or less topical discs.


Astral Doors. Astralism
Repetitive at times, nostalgic for sure and generally satisfying.

Beyond Twilight. For The Love Of Art And The Making
Insightfully pushing Metal music toward new horizons. 43 short chapters make way for a symphonic, extravagant and very interesting opus. I just miss the deep layers here and there. But once again praise to a unique band for doing something very different.

Jorn. The Duke
Solid and groovy Hard Rock, not breathtakingly melodic but a good album.

Lacuna Coil. Karmacode
I don't know what it is, but I miss some warmth here. The music is very nice and the atmospheres quite appealing at times.it just never gets really interesting.

Luca Turilli. The Infinite Wonders Of Creation
An experimental touch makes way for a rather interesting project, but I'm missing the melodic Power rockers.

Platitude. Silence Speaks
At first I was a bit let down and even though it's far form as phenomenal as last years Nine album, this one has gained substantial strength with time. Those key arrangements are sweeter that a Coke and Mars meal.

Queensrÿche. Operation: Mindcrime II
Yes there are positive things to enjoy, some unsuccessful moments too and unfortunately also quite a lot that seems more or less plain. Somehow it remains quite dynamic though.

Rage. Speak Of The Dead
The first half of the album is a Symphonic Metal show in eight parts while the other half represents a more in the flesh but yet still melodic classic Rage sound. Not among their best and most excitable works but enjoyable.

The Flower Kings. Paradox Hotel
A nice relaxing album to chill out to after a stressful day.

Whitesnake. Slip Of The Tongue
The dirty rocker Cheap An' Nasty and The Deeper The Love with its cheesy atmosphere are fantastic songs. A vibrant and refreshing Hard Rock album.

Written by Tommy
Monday, May 22, 2006