Band : Grönholm
Album title : Eyewitness Of Life
Label : Lion Music
Distributor : Bertus
Release Date : 17/04/2010
Release : CD

Yet another Finnish invasion.  I don't understand how it comes that the northern European metal an d rock music scene seems to be thriving or at least is able to secure a deal with a record firm, with that amount of bands going around.   This now is the first piece of art made by Mika Grönholm, a self-taught player.  He's been writing and working on the songs since 2003.

On vocals he recorded the help of Status Minor vocalist Markku Kuikka and on drums, also from Status Minor, Tom Rask, while Mika himself handles guitar, bass and synths.

Musically this can be described as progressive metal, but with some jazzy influences (just listen to "Meet the Maker") but also some Spanish music and some Indian influences.  On the other hand some songs can as easily be catalogued as pure hard rock/heavy metal. Also What's amazing is that the progressive parts are executed quite simply, so no overkill of riffs, solo's, tempo changes etc.
There are some guest performers on the album as well, Ty Tabor from Kings X, and Derek Sherinian from Dream Theater.

For a debut album this is highly recommended to buy it.  Fans of progressive metal as well as classic heavy metal might both like it.

85/100

Erik Morren.