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REVIEW BY AVANT-GUARD METALOne of the very few 'shred' albums to be reviewed on this site, this is a pleasant surprise. It is a totally different school from Malmsteen or Vai (minus the occasional squealy bits). Aptly backed by a versatile rhythm section and near spacey sounding keyboard backdrops, this guitar emotes in a way that few do. It paints pictures of a mysterious ethereal cosmos, and the passages, whether fast or slow, never sacrifice mood or atmosphere for mindless wankery.The very few spoken word narratives add to an already rich sound palette (and bring to mind Bal Sagoth, when coupled with the bombast). The concept is based on a fantasy land called Orbethia, and the enclosed letter mentions 'dreams and dreamscapes' which sounds about right. Interestingly the CD achieves this mood while being highly technical and busy.Shades of Gordian Knot and very occasionally King Crimson can be felt here along with extreme metal floydian element.And it’s all very positive (and sometimes bitter-sweet) sounding. A perfect soundtrack to......I am not sure what, but definitely something. Better to just think of Orbethia, and let it 'take your mind go to a better place' (as per main composer Ben White's instructions enclosed). The solos and rhythm work are completely shredding, highlighting the true star of this release, Ben's hyper-kinetic guitars. This definitely not for everyone, but those more appreciative of prog metal and shred, while searching for a more artistically enriched experience in those genres. visit our page at www.bandmeup.co.ukBen White and Shelley WhiteAll music and lyrics written by Ben white copyright 2004