New York's TWILIGHT ODYSSEY seems to exemplify the true, pioneering spirit of the best proto-prog metal bands of the 80s. The band consists of Pam "PJ" Berlinghof (vox), Ben Asaro (gtr), Dan Castro (gtr), Gennady Khirich (bass), and Sal Pellerito (drums). The three tracks on this sizzling debut are all about intricate and impressive forward-thinking metal.

"Gettysburg" is a 5+ minute track very much in the vein of the fantastic SLAUTER XSTROYES material from the mid-80s. PJ's voice is simply remarkable on this track, she handles the changes, twists, and turns with finesse and power. Lyrically, were talking about a detailed account of two brothers from opposing sides of the civil war killed in the battle of Gettysburg. Extraordinary material here, with old school metal glory. But this is just the beginning of the disc. We've got shredding guitars, we've got tight interplay between Pellerito, Castro, and Asaro. We've even got some explosions.

"The Endless Days of A Stranger" is a mid-paced rock gem that immediately calls to mind "Piece of Mind" in the first minute. The harmonies here scream Adrian Smith / Dave Murray. PJ's voice is still flooring me at this point. I'm wondering how she would tackle a cover of FATES WARNING's "Epitaph" or something like that.

In fact, early FW is a good illustration of the shape of this track. Maybe something like early OMEN as well would fit nicely here as a comparison here.

"Defiler" is a welcome third installment to this collection, this time blasting off with a marvelous NWOBHM riff comparable to old grandeur like JAGUAR or PRAYING MANTIS. This 7+ minute masterwork is a real showcase for the talent of guitarists Dan Castro and Ben Asaro. Definitely no mindless shredding here. This is the kind of speedy, heady guitar madness that bands like WATCHTOWER employed back in the golden era. The clashing of NWOBHM riff-rock with roller-coaster prog metal? This is too good to be true! But wait -- about 5:00 into the track, we are hit with another tempo change -- this time to a dirty, evil-sounding riff in the style of MERCYFUL FATE!! This band is just full of surprises, talent, and attitude. Treat yourself to this metal work at once!

-Marchman

OFFICIAL SITE: www.twilight-odyssey.com

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