The Italian Metal scene really can be astonishing sometimes. Indeed, Italy has a fertile scene, and by what I can hear/see in many occasions, even when the Metal style in question isn't something really new. There's a brand, a mark in every Italian band that guarantees the quality. That is definitely the case of the quintet ELEVENTH HOUR, who are releasing their first work, the album "Memory of a Lifetime Journey."

Their musical style: Progressive/Melodic Power Metal. So you will find some similarities with works from bands as DREAM THEATER (especially from "Images and Words" era, but not with a focus so evident on instrumental technique) and RHAPSODY OF FIRE. But please, don't get the wrong idea, because these have a strong and bold musical personality. One thing that is presented here is a heavy weight, conceived by strong and heavy guitar riffs and the powerful rhythmic section of the band. The vocals are using very good tunes (staying away from some extremely high notes), and the keyboards create very good orchestrations in every moment. So be drowned by their very good musical work, dear nephews and nieces of mine!

The technical part of sound production was done on a careful way. Yes, because the fine sound quality that we hear is the result of this good work. All the band's musical instruments are in fine volume and with very good tunes, and the weight is evident in every single moment. It's a fine work from Alessandro Del Vecchio, the band's vocalist, who worked on the mixing and the mastering. On their ten tracks the band is working in a very fine way, having as special guest the soprano singer Susanna Carboni on "Sleeping in My Dreams" and "Here Alone," and she gives the band a touch of class.

Their best moments on the album: the melodic, intense and wonderful "Sunshine's Not Too Far" (full of rhythmic changes, and showing excellent chorus and fine vocals, along with very good keyboards), the heavy musical work done on "All I Left Behind" (again showing excellent keyboards parts, but the guitars are excellent as well) and on "Jerusalem" (great work of bass guitar and drums, guiding the bands tempos with great weight. But the chorus is charming once more), the beautiful and sweet ballad "Sleeping in My Dreams" (the contrast between male and female vocals is excellent), the heavy, thunderous and complex "Requiem from a Prison", and the energy unleashed on "After All We've Been Missing" with its excellent work from bass guitar and drums once more. But the album is very good in all the songs. They are talented, so be welcome, guys!