The Progressive Rock formation SEVENTH WONDER hails from Stockholm, Sweden, and has been active since 2000. After releasing some demos in 2001 and 2003, they were picked up by LION MUSIC, who subsequently released their first four albums, knowingly “Become”, “Waiting In The Wings”, “Mercy Falls” and “The Great Escape”. After that they weren’t very active, due to Johnny Sandin leaving the band and Tommy Karevik accepting a second lead vocal role, this time with KAMELOT. So, he stayed on after all. What I do know is this; I will be reviewing all but the debut album. So, here we go, with “Waiting In The Wings”, their third album, originally released in 2008.

And I have to tell you up front that in my ears and eyes “Mercy Falls” is SEVENTH WONDER’s most heavy album that I will be reviewing. One thing that is very clear from the start is that we are dealing with a concept album. Someone is in an accident and rendered in a coma. The family members come by and speak to him. You also hear his own thoughts and rantings. In all the 74 minutes that the story unfolds, you are kept on your toes as to what is going on, will he wake up in time? Will he recover consciousness at all? If so, how does he come out of it? Plus, of course, what actually caused the accident to happen in the first place?

All those questions are answered throughout the album, but what I like best is the heaviness of the songs right after his visitor has left him. As if he is expressing his anger in those moments. I also like the fact that when the visitors are speaking, the whole atmosphere is very subdued, almost claustrophobic. As for the Progressive Rock element, they are there, and I have to say, all used at exactly the right time in the proper way. All these elements put together have made this one heck of an impressive album. It makes me wonder why SEVENTH WONDER in general and “Mercy Falls” in particular are not mentioned as being inspirational and exceptional. Because all that I get to hear on “Mercy Falls” is almost perfect. And that, my friendly readers, is how you should approach listening to this gem when you do so. Just click on the YouTube link, and you will surely be amazed.