(Heavy/Neo Progressive) Aeolus - Dust On The Mirror - 2003, MP3, 320 kbps

AEOLUS (meaning 'god of the winds') are a Dutch prog metal outfit whose two founders, keyboardist Michiel Kramp and bassist/guitarist Jurrie Teeuwen, have been making music together for over twenty years - indeed, since they were 13. When they decided to get serious about recording, they recruited vocalist Raymond Van Kooten and drummer Matthijs Hekking. Their material is a mixture of early MARILLION, IQ, GENESIS and a bit of PINK FLOYD, with some light-weight metal influences à la Steve Vai and Joe Satriani.
Their album "Dust on the Mirror", released in 2003, features some fairly accessible neo-prog with a swig of Nu-Metal. Vocalist Van Kooten, who carries his weight well amongst other Dutch neo-progsters (SINISTER STREET, TIMELOCK, FOR ABSENT FRIENDS) puts in a strong performance with a good range of styles and emotions - though some BEASTIE BOYS-like backing vocals aren't so hot. The material ranges from catchy neo-prog tunes with splendid guitar solos, funky, off-beat choruses and heavy Hammond organ fillers to some lovely Clive Nolan-like keyboards as well as plain, good old ballads... even a short rap sequence.
Mostly recommended for neo-prog fans of IQ, early MARILLION and other Dutch band BRASSÉ. (c).

Jurrie Teeuwen - guitars, bass
Michiel Kramp - keyboards
Guests:
Raymond van Kooten - vocals
Matthijs Hekking - drums