(Progressive Metal) Andeavor - Once Upon Time - 1999, MP3, 320 kbps

I think this is one of the albums led by Rodler brothers of Progressive Music Management I have tried way before for the first time. The music of Andeavor gave me a fresh breeze and nice impressions back then, and still does. It's quite impressive for me to hear complex prog metal with melodic sensibilities from "Once Upon Time" album.

I remember that the year of 1999 saw lots of great prog and prog metal bands debuting and releasing the albums in the music scene. Comparing to other PMM artists and groups, Andeavor plays solid progressive metal with some influences from Rush, Fates Warning, and even Dream Theater, yet they have laid out their own styles and elements as well. Andeavor make a good balance between technicality and song-oriented approach quite nicely, but overall they managed to put the emphasis on melody and hooks over intricacies and mind-boggling instrumentaion. This album performed by Andeavor was a fresh surprise for me, and I think "Once Upon Time" is definitely very enjoyable for the ears of prog metal listeners. In addition, they put some mystical atmospheres with soaring lead vocals and complex ensembles.

Nicely done, and highly recommended for solid prog metal music fans. I like this album so much. I really look forward to hearing their follow-up new album in the future.

(from http://hamanaka.com)

Douglas Peck - lead and harmony vocals, bass and keyboards
Steve Matusik - lead and rhythm guitars
Chris Rodler - keyboards and guitar synth
Steven J. Starvaggi - drums and harmony vocals