The addition of ex-Stratovarius bassist Jari Kainulainen and the return to their classic style of old are two important elements. The fact that the band produced the album themselves is also somewhat significant and sees them keeping an eye on their own legacy.
It is powerful, soaring, swooping, and at times melodic. There is a good mix of light and dark, the latter often basking in huge swathes of atmosphere. Tom Englund’s vocals draw every possible emotion from the lyrics and stamps his authority on proceedings with an all round powerful performance.
Evergrey fans who struggled to accept the trimmed down, mainstream elements of the three minute tracks contained on Monday Morning Apocolypse will like Torn. Sure it is not quite up there with their best but it is most definitely a step back towards their strengths.
The release of Torn will, I’m sure, signal a series of re-releases of Evergrey’s earlier albums as SPV have the entire back catalogue. So there is a lot to look forward to for fans of good progressive metal. Torn is a solid addition to that legacy. It should also get those who were somewhat uncertain of the last album back with the band. On the evidence of this Evergrey still have something to offer.
Evergrey's Official Website and Myspace Profile offer news and information on the band.
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