Crimson II
[Black Mark]

Back in 1996, Edge Of Sanity released the all-time classic Crimson, a 40-minute death metal epic.  At the time, I didn't think they could ever top it.  Thank goodness I was wrong.  Who says the sequel is never as good as the original?

Although Edge Of Sanity is back, don't let the name fool you:  This is a Dan Swano project with the EoS name attached.  He is an amazingly prolific musician, and he brings together all of his talents for Crimson II.  He plays all the instruments, save for a few guitar solos and some vocals, and he handles production chores.  Lyrics were written by Clive Nolan, keyboardist for the progressive rock bands

Arena, Shadowland, Pendragon, and Casino.  Whereas the original Crimson was one long 40-minute track that had to be listened to in its entirety, Crimson II is broken up into nine sections, each of which is broken up further, resulting in 44 tracks.  This is much more convenient, but this album must be played in its entirety to experience its full effect.

Expanding on the sound of 1997's Infernal (The last EoS album Swano was involved with), Crimson II combines death metal with progressive elements.  Keyboards are more prominent than past EoS efforts, and they are used to great effect.  Although it would be classified as melodic death, the sound of Crimson II isn't really that of the familiar In Flames/Soilwork style.  Swano's trademark death vocals (some of the best in the biz) are mixed with his clean style, which although nothing special, provide a great contrast. Several musical themes from Crimson I reappear in Crimson II, and they are sprinkled throughout the piece.  Feels are constantly changing, and there is a much more natural progression to the piece than Crimson I.  The piece just has a sort of ebb and flow most progressive metal lacks:It breathes.

Production is, as usual with Dan Swano, top notch.  He always seems to get a warm but clear sound.  Ultra-thick guitar tones are blended with grindy bass tones to make a huge wall of sound.  Drums are nicely recorded, particularly the snare drum tone.  Keyboards sit nicely atop this wall, and are clear but unobtrusive.  Swano's vocals are situated perfectly in the mix.

This is one hell of an album.Having been a fan of Edge Of Sanity's for a long time, I can safely say that this is their finest release (Move over, Purgatory Afterglow).  Although it is pretty much a Swano solo project, it certainly does the EoS name proud.  Crimson II is an instant classic.  If this is EoS's swansong, what a beautful song it is...