'The First Chapter' is the debut album by Norwegian power/progressive metal band CIRCUS MAXIMUS. In looking them up, I became aware that the name comes from the great Chariot races held in the arenas of early Roman times. Interesting. The album picks up on the growing trend of melodic power metal coming out of Europe, and it's very much in the vein of TAD MOROSE, ANGEL DUST, ANGRA, etc. Heavy guitars, very melodic, layered vocals, as well as atmospheric keyboards. Everyone in the band is super-talented. Guitarist Mats Haugen is tasteful and has chops on top of chops. His wah-flavored solo in "Alive" is nice. In fact all his solos are great! They are basically songs within songs. Singer Michael Eriksen is also exceptional. He can really hit those highs. My only problem with these type of vocals is the lack of grit, which takes away some of the power and the heaviness of an album like this. I'm also not really a big fan of the atmospheric keyboards. I like keyboards, but with more balls and more of a distinct sound -- guys like Jon Lord and Per Weiberg of the SPIRITUAL BEGGARS are good examples. The keyboards work very well however on the instrumental jam "Biosfear", which almost sounds straight off the first couple DREAM THEATER albums. Keyboardist Espen Storo is no slouch.

All in all, the 'The First Chapter' is an enjoyable listen. Well-written tunes, very well played. Although I feel I have heard it all before, it's a good debut nonetheless.

- Peters

OFFICIAL SITE: www.circusmaximussite.com

MP3 SOUND SCRAP: Biosfear

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