Virgo

Wow, for a surprise that is a surprise ! After 3 years of long wait, here I got the surprise to find the CD right when I come back from vacation. The CD is destined to be my little artifact for the rest of the year. Side project of André Matos (Angra, Shaman) and Sasha Paeth (Heaven's Gate) Virgo takes his name (logo) from the crossing of M (Matos) and P (Paeth) and represents the zodiac of Virgo (Virgin). This CD is not metal, but I would say it's more experimental symphonic rock. Difficult to explain the feelings that emanates from this album, but I can tell you that didn't often hear so much passion and melody on a CD before, with Matos vocals, that cannot be compared and are amongst the best vocals in the world (as far as I'm concerned), only Toshi from the Japanese band X-Japan is maybe a step ahead from Matos. You might think I'm not much open minded, but if you listen to the unbelievable No Need To Have An Answer : I bet you'll have a hard time finding arguments. Experimentation are numerous throughout the CD like the Gospel choir on River, or the violins smartly included in the songs. Sascha Paeth is mostly responsible for this explosions of melody and smart arrangements. His sound has become a trademark these days, with Rhapsody, Kamelot or Mob Rules, you can feel the power of his arrangements. Of course we immediately think of Queen while listening to Virgo, and the reason is pretty simple, both musicians being huge fans of the band. Someone might want to tell these 2 geniuses that the masterpiece they've just achieve is far better than their reference. I know I'm going to get my ass-kicked for saying so, but if Virgo had been made in the 70's, no doubt that André Matos would today be recognized as one of the best singers in the world. From all aspects, Virgo can be compared to the cathedral builders in the old age. The disc contains so many varieties that I have no doubt it can please almost everyone. I'd better stop my review, otherwise it might turn out to become a book of praises :). The album of the year is finally here, and it's called Virgo.