Review of Winds - Reflections of the I

Winds is the perfect name for this band because as soon as you get your first taste of what this album is all about you're surrounded by a whirlwind of amazing musicians. This is one hell of a mind-blowing album. It combines progressive metal with neo-classical elements which blend perfectly into one spiraling masterpiece. I wasn't sure what to expect with this one because often times progressive metal is a hit or miss for me personally, but this album is flawlessly performed. From each strike of a piano key, to the crash of a symbol, to the final note of a solo this album just melds together.
It's no surprise that the drums are played to perfection with Jan Axel von Blomberg (aka Hellhammer; what band doesn't this guy play with) on the kit. His technical drumming techniques hold as true here as they do with any number of the other bands he plays with from Mayhem to Kovenant. Carl August Tidemann is an amazing guitarist. Although most of his guitar work is dominated by technical mastery with amazing solos, he is still not afraid to go into a crushing riff or two from time to time. His guitar work is something else though, it is kind of like listening to something by maybe Yngwie Malmsteen, but with more feeling and solid songwriting behind it. Andy Winter does an amazing job with the keyboards. Not to mention he is backed by members of the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra. Winter is the main-man behind most of Winds' songs. He is able to create beautiful, emotional music and make it look so easy. Finally we come to the last piece that completes the puzzle, Lars Eric Si. Si is an amazing vokillist. His powerful voice commands your attention, but never does it aim to detract from the rest of the musicians on here, instead it only compliments them. What helps add to his vokills is the dark spoken word by Drajevolitch which surfaces from time to time. Imagine something in the vain of Peter Steele from Type O Negative and you'll begin to have an idea of his voice. It helps keep the dark elements of the album profound.
Andy Winter actually produced this album himself and did a prolific job at that. You could go through the sound of this album with a fine-tooth comb and still have a hard time finding a flaw in the production. It's crystal clear from beginning to end. The string elements are especially well done.
This is a release that is not just limited to those who enjoy metal, this is a release that can be enjoyed by anyone who truly loves music. Reflections of the I is the product of musicians who have fully mastered their instruments (and voices) but never does either one want to stand out more than the other. Instead they come together as one and create a one of a kind experience that has to be heard with your own ears to really appreciate. You owe to yourself and your ears, to buy this release.

Release Details

Winds

Reflections of the I

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