"First Chapter, Second Verse" is a re-recorded version of the first Zello album, which was released in 1996 by APM-records (however, songwriting started already in 1979). This album contains 2 new tracks and re-arranged parts, so it can be considered as a new album. This time also guitars are included (their debut album didn't have any guitar parts). Guitar parts are handled by Janne Stark (Locomotive Breath, Overdrive) who is actually an old Zello fan. If you haven't heard of Zello, they play symphonic progressive rock in the vein of Kansas, Magnum, Jethro Tull and UK.

Songwriting on this album is of quite high quality, as the songs are good... The material keeps listener intrigued even for recurrent listens. However, some sections could have been better.

Although P.O. Saether is one of Sweden's top producers for rock and metal, he could have done a better job on this album... Distortion and clipping occurred couple of times, and also mixing could have been better. However, it's probably the recorded sounds that need improvement (for example, the guitar tone).

The promo sheet announces this album as a masterpiece of symphonic prog... I wouldn't call this album a masterpiece, but it's quite good album (nevertheless). Especially recommended to Zello fans (this album can be regarded as "updated" Zello). Also this album can be considered as a new start for the band.

Release date: 11.11.2004


- MAGE (04.11.2004)

« back

LINE-UP:
Saether, P.O.: Vocals Lindell, Dan: Bass Altzarfeldt, Anders: Organ, Moog Olsson, Mats: Piano, Keyboards Batal, Jamil: Drums Glenberg, Lennart: Violin, Viola Stark, Janne: Guitar
Producer:	Saether, P.O.
Mixing by:	Unavailable
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Fairy Queen 02. Little Eve 03. Hold on 04. Shades of the Crying Children 05. The Children Are Crying 06. Kelpie 07. The Angels Have Fallen 08. The Humming 09. Voyager 10. FlöjtBenkes Resa 11. Traffic Jam 12. Through Clouds of Virgin Angels 13. Hold on (Live)