Reviewed by Ian Webber

There will be some who remember the days of pioneering metal bands Sacred Warrior and Deliverance who will be pleased to hear that George Ochoa and Ray Parra from these early days are now collaborating on a new project. This collective of pioneering musicians are also joined by a raft of familiar names, including the guitar talents of Larry Farkas (Vengeance Rising) and Oz Fox (Stryper) to here record a series of melodic and driving progressive metal tracks. All 10 offerings are richly textured and heavily feature waves of synth, along with some blistering soloing from Ochoa. Opening with "Mortality" there are passages of crunching guitars weaved within an Eastern sounding refrain. Parra's voice makes an immediate impression as it soars over the sing along chorus. In true progressive style "Back In Time" features the addition of strings before guitars cut in once again. The strongest track, "The Chosen Few," features some picked guitars along with a powerful guest appearance by Bloodgood's renowned Les Carlson. The mixing and production give a bright and luxurious blend to the many facets of the recording which has a vibe that is heavily fixed in the '70s and '80s. Throughout the recording glimpses of the group's faith are seen through some honest lyrics and themes. Although some may be surprised that this recording is more melodic than might be expected when compared to the creators' backgrounds, the slower pace of many of these tracks adds to 'The Chosen Few''s pleasing atmosphere.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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