Sweden's SEVENTH WONDER has what every band of their genre needs: chops, songs and, of course, balls. Their new album "Waiting in the Wings" has the morose insight of fellow countrymen EVERYGREY mixed with the complex and intriguing song structure of the short-lived Dutch IMPERIUM. Sure, every member of the band gets the opportunity to show off their technical skill, but this time around it's done right: within the context of, and without the sacrifice of, the songs themselves. What a concept, right?

The opening track "Star of David" would make one initially think "ballad" with the vocal/piano intro, but within 10 seconds deceptively morphs into a nice mid-paced rocker. The punching synth lead in "Taint the Sky" sounds like it came straight out of ASIA, but it adds just the right amount of cheese to this disc. The 9+ minute title track, the cornerstone of the album, is a shining example of prog-power done right: with soaring chorus, impressive leads that aren't too much for the listener and, above all, the ability to make 9 minutes fly by. Other tracks like "Devil's Inc." (with a sweet bass fingering intro) and "Walking Tall" keep the listener onboard. These guys have apparently had problems keeping a vocalist, and although new vocalist Tommy Karevik has a babyface quality about him, he's more than capable behind the mic.

It's quite refreshing to be reminded that unlike some artists who are only in it to show their off their virtuoso skill (see my Marco Ferrigno review), there are still some very talented musicians who give the art of songwriting their all and act as a cohesive unit instead of a bunch of sissy little prima donnas trying to outdo each other. If there's any justice in the world, SEVENTH WONDER is a name that won't go away anytime soon.

- Cardona

OFFICIAL SITE: www.seventhwonder.nu

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