Windhawk
A really strong effort from this Dutch band, that arguably may have crafted the best progressive metal album of 2009 with "For Moments Never Done". At least for those who appreciates bands residing in the challenging and most sophisticated territories of this stylistic expression.
The seven tracks here are all elaborate and quirky, at least to some extent. From sophisticated riff patterns to highly detailed and carefully crafted sonic tapestries the album as a whole seems to be thought out and planned in minutest detail. Smooth transitions from leaden riff barrages with more than a touch of thrash metal to gentle atmospheric themes with an emphasis on melody and beauty as well as most variations in between are constant, and subtle as well as dramatic alterations in expression, tempo and intensity keeps surprising positively the more you get familiar with this production.
Excellent performances in general and by vocalist Legrand in particular are the final ingredients on a disc which should find it's place into the collections of any serious collector of progressive metal.