One word
that covers all aspects of this release is: solid!
Everything
is done properly and skilful, but nothing stands out and makes one think twice.
Main song
writer and guitarist Mike Grönholm is a gifted song writer and guitarist, but
not one that will shatter your foundations. The same can be said about vocalist,
Markku Kuikka (Status Minor), good, but not extraordinary. The production is
fine, but... I think you catch my drift. Even the artwork, done by accomplished
artist Hugh Syme does not belong to his best work.
'Eyewitness
of Life' has guest appearances by guitarist Ty Tabor (Kings X) and keyboard whiz
Derek Sherinian (Dream Theater), but at the end of the day I must say that this
will never be more than a solid album bordering to mediocrity.
