"Said", the third full length album by Neverdream from Italy is a concept album that sends us on journey through the historical, social and cultural life of the cradle of human race... Africa. Produced by acclaimed German producer Achim Kohler (Amon Amarth, Nevermore etc.) with whom they also worked with on "Souls - 26 April 1986".

Neverdream plays progressive metal with references to bands like Pain of Salvation, Katatonia, Orphaned Land and Opeth. But their aggressive, modern and dark sound does sound fresh and they do leave the safe confines of progressive metal incorporating some rather strange sounds from fusion and jazz into the big picture.

The constellation includes a regular saxophone player and his contribution to the sound makes them stand out, and "Said" shows a band on the right track. One of the better new discoveries for me this year, and surely a band worth checking out...