AEON ZEN have released their upbeat, powerful epic story with "Transversal" - a sure treat for anyone into adventurous, 80s-inspired hard rock. I like how the album begins with "Twilight" where each band member seems to be holding back their best for the big reveal. It's pretty, but the power behind a lot of their musicianship isn't revealed until closer to the chorus in this song. This is when I realized the strength behind the singer's vocals and that there would be some epic guitar solos, among other interesting sounds. "A New Day" has serious story-telling vibes and is the best song on the album. I really got the sense that a new day was beginning, which speaks volumes to the band's ability to get their point across. There are some epic guitar solos and the opening riff is amazing, as well. I get the sense that there is an epic adventure happening and the quest is coming to an important moment.

At one point around 2:38 in "Chase the Sunrise" gets so 80s it sounds like video game background music. Guitar Hero, anyone? The solo even sounds very much like something from a video game or a bad 80s action movie. Not that the music itself is bad, because they have real talent. One thing I can say for certain is that this album is so well put together that many of the songs transition into the next so effortlessly I almost don't notice when a new song begins aside from the subtle changes and lyric content. AEON ZEN have really managed to put together something cohesive and well-blended. This is another extremely guitar and vocal driven album, where both musicians are given ample opportunity to shine throughout the album.

This style of music isn't my cup of tea, but I can't deny the musical creativity and skill this band possesses. The seventh track "Purgatory Rechristened" is a fine example of this. This band does things with the keyboards and guitars that are nothing short of amazing. Even if I do get old school video game vibes, so what? Those are the best games. OKAY, so maybe some of it is overkill, but their music is upbeat and victorious, if you like that sort of thing.