Every track found here has merit, interest and oozes musical greatness.
Italian Prog Metallers Last Union are not just any new band because they certainly have some good pedigree within their ranks. Vocalist Elisa Scarpeccio and guitarist Cristiano Tiberi are joined by Mike LePond (Symphony X) on bass and Uli Kusch (ex-Helloween) on drums, with Dream Theater's James LaBrie also adding guest vocals.
Scarpeccio's strong, purposeful vocals lead the melodic edge of 'Most Beautiful Day' as it weaves an enduring web of guitars and harmonies. 'President Evil' brings LaBrie in on vocals and this gives the song a darker, thrusting vibe which works so well.
From the first chords of 'Hardest Way', it's apparent this track is oozing with atmospheric energy where Scarpeccio's vocal blends sweetly with the accompanying guitar melody, giving the song a haunting quality. 'Purple Angels' takes a more traditional route via its straightforward Metal tones and screaming guitar licks, with vocals added as the cream on top of an already tasty track.
'The Best Of Magic' pulls in the Prog element of the band's sound as the song takes on a life of its own; lyrical, tonal delights merge with well-crafted hooks and soaring guitar passages in this strong opus. LaBrie steps back in for 'Taken' which is a driven, fast-paced item filled with delayed guitar lines, bell-toned lead licks and a gritty vocal aspect.
'Euphoria' manages to keep the listener guessing as it leaps its way on a rocking journey which is both fast-paced and, at times, gentle and angelic.
The pumping intro to 'A Place In Heaven' doesn't betray what is lying in wait. This song is melodic but so powerful that it's liable to rip your head off without a second thought once it kicks in! 'Ghostwriter', however, is less subtle in its relentless, pounding delivery of the song's message.
'Limousine' returns to a more melodic core which reels the listener in; this is clearly where Last Union's strengths lie. 'Back In The Shadow' is a definite high to end on; a driving rhythm, amazing harmonies and sweet guitar phrasing battle against thrashing, pumping riffing, whilst Scarpeccio delivers her strongest vocal performance on the album.
Every track found here has merit, interest and oozes musical greatness. There is a feeling of space between the instruments and vocals in the mix, leading to a bright, fresh feel even in the album's heaviest, darkest moments. This is certainly a debut to be proud of!
Paul Sabin
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