Angel Of Eden - The End Of Never

Carasten Schulz of Evidence One is certainly the hot vocalist when it comes to melodic vocals these days, and so it is perhaps not a surprise to see that Artension guitarist Roger Staffelbach has recruited him to sing on his new Angel of Eden project, and for Evidence One fans, the album also features Rami Ali on drums.What Staffelbach has created on 'The End of Never' is a departure from his work with prog masters Artension, and as would be expected from the lineup here, which also features Mistheria on keyboards who has previously worked with Bruce Dickinson, a much more melodic power album. Ideas behind the album apparently drove a neo-classical style in there as well, but to be honest with you, I don't hear anything of the kind. I hear traditional guitar sounds, power metal and perhaps even prog metal solos at that. Neo-Classical? Ok, if you say so!

So yes, I think we can call this a power metal album with melodic and prog metal influences. I like the sound of that!

As you would expect Schulz's vocals are superb throughout, there is a reason why he has that hot ticket label, he is that talented, and despite who's album this really is, it's Schulz that yet again steals the show, and he really is starting to make a habit of that! Other than Schulz though, this album is very average. Solid performance throughout on all levels yes, but nothing here, other than Schulz that makes this stand out in any real way, and compared to his other work with Evidence One, this is a poor second.

A solid buy for fans of Staffenbach, who won't be disappointed, likewise for hardcore fans of Schulz, but this isn't as good as his work with Evidence One.

Lineup:

Roger Staffenbach - Guitars
Carsten 'Lizard' Schulz - Vocals
Rami Ali - Drums
Mistheria - Keyboards