Veni Domine - Material Sanctuary (1994)
On this second release from the Swedish masters of progressive metal the band takes a turn to a much more symphonic doom sound with long, slow, and sombre tales and intricate song structures. The use of
keyboards is very
prominent here. The guitars are still the main instrument and are heavy and very melodic but one might consider this nowhere near the power metal label that has been stuck on this band. Veni Domine has crafted
a sound unlike any band I have heard before. They have taken power and progressive metal to a new level melding the styles with a foreboding sense of doom. Clear powerful vocals similar in style to early Geoff Tate (Queensryche)
carry the weight of the songs. Classical instrumentation is very prevalent with instruments like the piano and 11 string alto guitar. This is another must have cd from one of the best bands in all of music. -- Review by Norm