Stéphan Forté's vision was the start of Adagio; most of the music is written by him with the exception of Immigrant Song (which is an interpretation of the Led Zeppelin song) and a classical composer or two. That said, Adagio are not a vehicle for Stéphan alone, the whole band are excellent musicians and all shine in their own right on this album.

The album starts with a choral section with keys and a bell to explode with harpsichord style keys and a driving bass followed a guitar solo. This quickly gives the listener some clues about what is to come. Adagio are heavy with some strong classical influences and hugely symphonic. This album shows them moving between baroque style symphonic sections to Yngwie Malmsteen style guitar solos and keyboard runs. The singer (David Readman: who reminds me of Andre Matos) is also more than capable. The rhythm section underpins all to produce a great result, in my opinion.

Now and then some classical piece will creep into the music, not always obviously although I think few will miss Bach's Air on a G String in Paneut et Circences. The guitar solo in this section is gorgeous!

I think this is a seriously good album, its one to listen to in a single sitting. I have no favourite tracks as they're all good. Certainly recommended to those who're looking for something different in the progressive metal/power metal genres.