| CD REVIEW Astra |
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Band : Astra Astra started back in 2001 in Rome as an instrumental project. At the time a 4 piece 3 of which (keyboard, bass and guitar players) are still are in the current line-up. After several line-up changes they reached the current line up: Titta Tani (main vocals), Emanuele Casali (keyboards and chorus), Andrea Casali (bass and chorus), Silvio D'Onorio De Meo (guitars) and Filippo Berlini (drums). In December 2005 Astra signed for Burning Star Records and got back to the studio to record their debut. In August 2006 Burning Star Records released About Me: Through Life And Beyond which well received from press worldwide. From Within is their newest effort. Astra play progressive power metal with high amounts of, in front symphonic keyboard, technical wizardry. “Over the hills” and “Hypocrisy” are pretty fast songs with some great detailed and forceful drums. The main rhythm is tight, but also a bit too bombastic. The song has a lot of power to offer, and some melodic guitar leads. The very powerful and technical played drums, nicely combined with a solid bass performance are working well. The heavy guitar riffs and melodic leads, which are found in many songs, is one of the best things on this record. The vocals are melodic and fitting at times, but they also sounds a bit tame and monotone, so I am not that impressed here. “Never say goodbye” is the sappy piano Queen-ish ballad. For fans of Symphony X, VandenPlas, Dream Theater, Saga,… 75/100 Peter Brems. |