Veni Domine - Spiritual Wasteland (1998)
This latest release from the masters of epic prog metal sees the band going back to s lightly more accessable sound, meaning you don't feel like you have to be a music major to understand what is going on within the song structures. Veni Domine is in my opinion the finest progressive metal band I have ever heard. The new cd "Spiritual Wasteland" is done in somewhat of a concept fashion, telling the story of a man who has been left behind after the rapture. The music is a progressive and abstract mixture of power, doom and classical metal styles. This is well structured with variations that can only be compared to Dream Theater, truly some of the best work these guys have ever done. This disc retains all the elements that makes Veni Domine what it is, here you will find luxurious keyboards and heavy guitars mixed with a symphonic style unparralleled by any band out today. Veni Domine's music can also be compared to bands like Balance Of Power, Queensryche, Dream Theater and Fates Warning but they are in no way a rip-off band. Every note and sound that eminates from this recording sounds totally and unsurpassingly original. Pristine vocals and melodic guitars are here to stay. Recommended for fans of all styes of progressive, power, epic, doom and classic metal. -- Review by Norm