Burden of Truth :: Circle II Circle

What is a concept album? It is simply an album where each song revolves around a single concept or story. When it comes to recording a concept album, the songs have to fit with the story line. In the case of 'Burden Of Truth', the latest release from Circle II Circle, the songs and the story line fit line a glove. Inspired by the books "The Da Vinci Code" and "Holy Blood Holy Grail " Zak Stevens and his band mates from Circle II Circle have begun an extraordinary journey through mind, fantasy, fact and history. A musical, spiritual and deeply touching journey they now are proud to present within a concept album that has never been made like this before. If you liked the Zak Stevens version of Savatage, then you will most certainly enjoy Circle II Circle. I actually like Zak in Circle II Circle more than Savatage; the songs just seem to better fit his voice and style. Zak Stevens knows how powerful his voice can be when backed up by melodic threads of guitar and the occasional keys, and that's what he does on songs like "A Matter of Time", "Heal You", and "Evermore". The songs are faster and more energetic. The soaring chorus of "Heal You" and the strong backing harmonies of "Evermore" will make excellent choices in a live setting. Both songs also have slightly rock-flavored lead solos, unlike the more metallic, heavy explosions heard on their debut. Zak Stevens absolutely shines on "Revelations", one of his greatest achievements in Circle II Circle. The song begins with crushing staccato riffs in an almost thrash metal sense before dissolving into a sea of melodies. Some people look at fine wine as a living thing that gets better to a point and then starts to decay. The lyrics of the album suggest 'Burden of Truth' is a conspiracy theory conceptual work and there is also a secret message hidden in the artwork for the die-hard fans to figure out. I myself haven't gotten to it yet, but it will certainly be interesting to check it out.