Many die-hard Evergrey fans have high hopes for this new release that includes an all-new lineup outside of long time singer/guitarist Tom Englund and Rikard Zander on keyboards. The album starts off with the upbeat ‘Leave It Behind’ (speaking of their fresh start as a band?) with great vocals and super guitar solo riffing on top of driving drumbeats.

‘You’ begins reminiscent of the older Evergrey sound and includes nice guitar harmonies and other interesting guitar riffs. The background vocals caught my attention in ‘Wrong’ as they added depth along with Tom singing some higher notes than is typical. Beginning and ending with acoustic guitar and emotion-filled vocals, ‘To Fit the Mold’ really takes me back to what makes Evergrey unique. The song picks up intensity in the middle, but never loses its emotion. ‘Free’ is the ballad featuring acoustic guitar with keys – a flowing song that is refreshingly good. ‘I’m Drowning Alone’ is an upbeat track with short haunting child vocals (reportedly sung by Englund’s 10-year old daughter).

Where I really notice a difference on this release is in the lead guitar – it’s more interesting, and sprinkled with a few passages of those classic Evergrey guitar harmonies. The vocals and production are perfect.

Definitely heading back in the right direction.