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TOMORROW'S EVE
- The Tower
Lion Music
Metal Express
Rating: 8.5/10
Release Date: 2007-05-29
by: GEORGE FUSTOS
Email:
george(at)metalexpressradio(dot)com
www.metalexpressradio.com |
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The members of Tomorrow’s Eve have
indeed turned the page. They are now
at a level that few bands ever
achieve in their lifetime. What a
difference a year makes. Their last
release, Mirror of Creation II –
Genesis II in 2006, was good,
but who in their right mind expected
this? The Tower sounds as if
the band went back to music school,
just graduated, and put out this new
EP. The music on it sounds far
superior to what anyone could have
predicted -- it is that good.
This 4-track EP is a limited
edition CD album that was put
together to give fans an idea of
what to expect on the bands next
full-length album, expected to be
released after their European tour
with Circle II Circle. It contains
some new music as well as some
re-recorded material with a 2007
spin on it. It will also hint at
what direction the band is headed.
The band will be using SU-2 Studios
(Germany) once again where they are
already booked for their latest
undertaking. TheTower is dark
and aggressive, something that will
be carried over to their new
full-length release.
The band remains intact with the
same line-up from their last
release. “The Tower” and “Remember”
are the two new songs, along with
different versions of “Success” and
“Not From This World.” Guests
include Jennie Kloos, once again
with her beautiful voice, and Phil
Hillen. The EP is a little over 22
minutes, but seems to last much
longer while you listen to it from
beginning to end, leaving you
wanting more. You’ll just have to
wait for the band's next release,
which is exactly the sole purpose
for this EP tease.
“The Tower” coming in at a hair
under 7 minutes showcases the band's
new found talent equally amongst
themselves, but Tom Diener’s
drumming is clearly the highlight.
“Remember” comes in around 6 minutes,
and the emphasis is on Martin
LeMar’s strong voice. While
“Success” is a different version,
the drumming on it is just plain out
of this world and all over the place.
The keyboard playing by Oliver
Schwiekert is quite evident. The new
“Not From This World” once again
highlights the incredible voice of
Jennie Kloos. The duets with Martin
LeMar are just beautiful. Of course,
the bass playing of Chris Doerr and
the guitar magic of Rainer Grund is
as solid as ever, keeping everything
together quietly in the background.
Okay, maybe not quietly.
While The Tower is a
4-track EP, it is also a collectors
item and in short supply. There are
a few more copies available from
what the band's Web site is saying.
Therefore, fans of Prog Metal and
especially fans of Tomorrow’s Eve
should get their act in gear unless
you want to be saying “I wish I
picked that CD up while I had the
chance” down the road. You won’t be
disappointed one bit. |
Tomorrow’s Eve: The Tower
 This limited edition four track single is a foretaste of the style to be expected in the German heavy classic rock band’s next (fourth) full studio work. In the title track which opens the CD, you can hear traces of Ian Gillan’s influence in Martin LeMar’s clearly enunciated and powerful voice. Rainer Grund’s tasty and fast-flowing guitar lines glide over symphonic keys and driving bass and drums in this anthemic opener and the band also display the tender side of their nature in the piano accompanied breathy ending, along with the similar opening to the next song, "Remember". Le Mar is at his most fervent here underscored by some great melodic bass from Chris Doerr and towering keys from Oliver Schwickert giving the song a heady operatic conclusion.
Side 2 as it would have been, contains updated material from the band’s early career. "Success 2007" moves more firmly back into the band’s metal roots, clobbering the listener from the outset with spitting guitar and drums before the pace is cut back to allow LeMar’s vocals to come through. One of the best male metal vocalists around to this reviewer’s ears, Le Mar delivers the words with supreme force and clarity over a gradually built riff and string synth/piano accompaniment which carry the track through its paces between verses. "Not From This World 2007" completes the disc with the inclusion of guest male and female vocalists in this poignant duet.
If the next full album is as good as the material presented here we are looking at a top band in this genre.
Track Listing
1. The Tower
2. Remember
3. Success 2007
4. Not from this world 2007
Added: July 24th 2007
Reviewer: Richard Barnes
Score: 
Related Link: Lion Music |
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http://www.virtuosityone.com/reviewroundup0507.htm
Bouncing back quickly from last years
recommended ‘Mirror Of Creation II: The
Genesis’, Tomorrow’s Eve have wasted no time
in putting together a rather special little
EP entitled ‘The Tower’ to celebrate their
recent European tour with Circle II Circle.
The EP contains 2 tracks from their next
album in ‘The Tower’ and ‘Remember’ which
are 2 quality progressive metal tracks that
combine great melody mixed with musical
light and shade and the ever impressive
vocals of Martin LeMar. The keyboards of
Oliver Schwickert have been notched up a tad
compared to ‘Mirror II’ and this is of
benefit to the new material working
incredibly well with the punchy guitar work
of Rainer Grund which suggests the next
album will be something truly special indeed.
The EP is rounded out with new recording of
tracks from the bands back catalogue in
‘Success (2007)’ and ‘Not From The World
(2007)’. The former is riff heavy and
menacing whilst the later is mainly pian
o led and atmospheric and again showcases
LeMar’s vocals to fine effect. Overall a
very tidy little package and a good starting
point (given the low price) for anyone that
has yet to sample Tomorrow’s Eve own
personal take on the prog metal genre.
Rating - 88%
Tomorrow’s Eve / The Tower
Lion Music / May 2007
4 tracks / 22:18
At the end of my review of Tomorrow’s Eve’s
last album “Mirror Of Creation 2 - Genesis
II” I wrote that I had the feeling that the
band’s best was yet to come and this 4-track
single proves me right. This single ties in
with the finalisation of a European tour
with Circle II Circle, but is also meant as
a tease for the band’s upcoming full-length
album. Songs like “The Tower” and “Remember”
show a slightly darker and more aggressive
side to this German progmetal band, but one
that ‘s very more-ish. Also featured are new
versions of two older songs, viz “Success”
and “Not From This World”. If this is an
indication of what we might expect from the
band later this year (I hope), then Lion
Music have another ace upon their sleeve. To
be continued! (CL)
http://www.t-eve.com
review from
www.mindview.be
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Tomorrow’s Eve - The
Tower (Lion Music) By:
Joe Florez
www.live4metal.com
This is a 4 track CD single to tie
over fans until their next offering.
Their last release, Mirror Of
Creation II was the first time that
I had heard of this German
progressive metal outfit and they
just absolutely blew my mind. Now,
they are giving the fans a small
glimpse into their world and let you
know where they are headed with
their music. There are two new cuts
and two re-workings of older songs
that are upgraded to what they have
become now. The title track shows a
much more aggressive sound from the
boys. Martin’s voice starts out
subtle and calm as he sings
accapella with only ambient
soundscapes to accompany him, but
then the rhythmic drumming comes
into play and soon enough things get
amped up.
The guitars are fierce and the
vocals are leaner and meaner. Just
because the song gets a little ugly,
it doesn’t necessarily mean that it
will become devoid of melodies
because it doesn’t. They are there
intact, but just now happen to share
notes with a darker vibe. It’s not
overly complicated and it’s paced
just right. It’s vibrant and
energetic without ever losing
interest. Thrown into the mix is
some classic 70’s rock style
keyboard work, but has a bit more of
an edge and it works out nicely.
“Remember” is basically a power
ballad of sorts. This one brings
down the house like no other.
Martin’s set of lungs really shines
through as he croons his way with
emotion and conviction. Everyone
else plays their parts perfectly
going with the flow from slow to
bombastic in the choruses. It’s at
the half way point where things
really get going and head in the
prog route, but then get back to the
beginning again. Simply
put…powerful! “Success 2007” is just
a blazing number that runs the gamut
and refuses to hold back. This track
is revamped up from their debut and
even though I have never heard it,
I’m more than positive that this is
much better and more mature. The
final track on here is “Not Of This
World 2007” which is a true ballad
accompanied by a piano and a soft
female vocalist to trade off on.
There is some tympani and string
work to make this one majestic and
beautiful.
I am not one to indulge in CD
singles, but this is a must have and
a keeper. I have no idea what’s in
store for the next disc, but if this
is any indication then I am chomping
at the bit and waiting anxiously for
it. Get it!
www.lionmusic.com |
www.t-eve.com |
TOMORROW’S EVE ‘The Tower’ (EP 2007) Lion
Music
www.lionmusic.com
Following on from last
year’s ‘Mirror Of Creation II’ the band are
releasing this four track EP to tide fans
over until their next album. The two all new
songs, the title track and ‘Remember’ are
enjoyable epic filled tunes with gentle
piano one minute and then massive guitars
the next. Like last year’s rather good album
they remind you of Queensryche and Savatage.
Also on here are two updated versions of
‘Success’ and the beautiful piano led ‘Not
From This World’ which features Jenny Kloos
guesting on vocals.
Roll on the new album is
all I can say!
****
Jason Ritchie
www.getreadytorock.com
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TOMORROW'S EVE - Mirror Of
Creation 2 - Genesis II
Lion Music
Release Date: 2006-09-22
by: GEORGE FUSTOS
Email:
george@metalexpressradio.com
www.metalexpressradio.com |
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Lion Music, a label out of Finland, has
brought out yet another fine Progressive
Metal release. It turns out that if you are
a fan of this particular genre (Progressive
Metal) then you don’t have to look any
further than Lion music. They have been
signing bands and releasing some of the
finest Progressive and Melodic Metal music
over the last few years. It appears that
with Tomorrow’s Eve they may have hit a home
run.
Tomorrow’s Eve was founded in 1998 in
Idar-Oberstein, Germany. Interestingly
enough, this band has had a different
line-up for each of its studio album
releases: three releases to date. Here is a
quick discography summary for Tomorrow’s Eve
... 1999 - The Unexpected World, the
band’s first album was composed and recorded
at the Bazement (Basement) Studios in
Wiesbaden, Germany, and before long they got
a deal with the label B. Mind Records in
Berlin, Germany. The release came in October
2000 with the official line-up (according to
the album) consisting of the following
musicians: Peter Webel (vocals), Rainer
Grund (guitars), Oliver Schwickert (keyboards),
Sascha Hilles (bass), and Ralf Gottlieb (drums).
Tomorrow’s Eve surprised everyone with this
debut album and were hailed as the new
German Prog Metal sensations. The second
album, Mirror Of Creation, began in
mid-2001 and was completed by the end of
that year. It was recorded April through
June 2002, again at the Bazement (Basement)
Studios, and was officially released in
March/April of 2003. In June 2002, Ralf and
Sascha decided to leave the band because of
personal stress. In September 2002, Peter
became another casualty. Replacements needed
to come quickly as possible, and Peter was
replaced right away, as luck would have it.
His replacement was a vocalist named Rouven
Bitz. A new line-up (consisting of Rainer
Grund, Oliver Schwickert, and Rouven Bitz)
for Tomorrow’s Eve was complete, according
to the band. When playing live, they would
find guest musicians to take on the bass and
drum responsibilities. By this time, B. Mind
Records discontinued production and
Tomorrow’s Eve had to find a new label.
Again, lady luck played part in their fate
and Mirror Of Creation was released
on TWS-Source Of Deluge (SOD) Records in
2003. By the time Tomorrow’s Eve finished
creating Mirror Of Creation, it
turned into a 70-minute concept album. The
band’s line-up changed slightly by replacing
Sascha Hilles with Rene Muller on bass. Ralf
was replaced with Oliver Jungmann on drums
for a very short while who eventually left
to join Demons Seed sometime in 2003. It
turns out that Oliver Jungmann and Rene
Muller had other aspirations and the new
rhythm section turned out to be Chris Doerr
on bass and Tom Diener on drums. In November
2004, a new vocalist named Martin LeMar
began to rehearse songs with Tomorrow’s Eve.
It was just a matter of time before he
completed the band. To put it mildly, a lot
went on with Tomorrow’s Eve from the time
they released their debut album to the time
they started working on their third and most
recent album.
The band’s latest and highly anticipated
follow-up is Mirror Of Creation 2 -
Genesis II, released on September 22,
2006 by Lion Music. The new album was mixed
and recorded at SU-2 Studios in Illingen,
Germany. It also has guest vocalist Jennie
Kloos appearing on 2 tracks, and guest
keyboard player Vivien Lalu and special
guest appearance by Joshua Grund taking part
in a respective track as well.
This answered some of the questions
placed upon them by the band's response with
Mirror Of Creation 2 - Genesis II.
Whether or not Tomorrow’s Eve has progressed
or gotten better from MOC to MOC 2
is something that has been debated by many
already. The fact is that you can’t say any
other than the band sounds different than
they did previously. That’s it! Bottom line!
With all the personnel shuffling, turmoil,
and revamping going on over the years, how
can you accurately assess and answer the
question on whether or not the band has
progressed? If you change musicians (especially
as often as Tomorrow’s Eve does), you are
going to get a different sound. When
Tomorrow’s Eve comes out with two or three
releases in a row with the same line-up of
musicians, only then can their progression
be accurately assessed. As far as talent is
concerned, they are all good musicians and
have complemented each other nicely to
produce good sounding albums.
Focusing on the musical aspects of
Mirror Of Creation 2 - Genesis II, there
is one thing that stands out right away and
takes the band to the next level -- the
addition of Martin LeMar. He without doubt
brought new life into Tomorrow’s Eve with
his powerful, aggressive, and intense
singing voice. The band retained its
heaviness, if not turned it up a bit. The
album is your typical Progressive Metal
style, being melodic at times and heavy at
others. It has a great overall sound from
beginning to end. There's really no
comparison of this band to the others out
there. It is Progressive Metal … what else
is there to say other than it’s a concept
album sequel to a concept album. It has all
the ingredients of a good Prog Metal LP:
heavy bass, impressive drumming with equally
noticeable cymbal work, synthesized
keyboards that are intense as well as mellow
when fitting, and the same can be said for
the piano work, strong powerful vocals that
take charge, killer shredding on the guitar,
heavy riffs, mind-blowing solos at all
levels -- all being played by talented
musicians. Albeit that Rainer Grund is no
John Petrucci, and Chris Doerr is no John
Myung … one can see where this is going ...
in the end, if you like this particular
genre of music, go out and treat yourself to
a new experience!
For more information about the band or
label (remember they sign lots of good Prog
Metal bands), check out these sites:
Tomorrow’s
Eve Web site
Myspace Web site for MOC
Lion Music Web site
To contact by E-mail: info@t-eve.com or
info@tomorrows-eve.de |
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Tomorrow's Eve - Mirror
Of Creation 2: Genesis II
(8,5/10)
- Germany - 2006 |
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Genre:
Progressive Metal
Label:
Lion Music
Playing time: 68:41
Band homepage:
Tomorrow's Eve
Tracklist:
-
Man Without A Name
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Amnesia
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Pain
-
The Eve Suite
-
The Market Of Umbra
-
Not From This World
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Eye For An Eye
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Irreversible
-
Distant Murmurs
-
Rebirth
-
The Human Device
-
The Trials Of Man
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Lion’s
Music has been a victim of releasing
some clunkers this past summer. Some
instances would include FROM BEHIND
and HAUTEVILLE just to name a couple.
They didn’t live to the expectations
that LM has been known for which is
pumping out talented Progressive
music from around the world. Well
the turn for the worst has just
gotten better with a nice surprise
from TOMORROW’S EVE. I have never
heard of the band, but was
pleasantly surprised at what these
guys are capable of. This is the
groups third serving and this is a
continuing story that began somewhat
on numero uno and continued on their
sophomore effort that left some
questions unanswered which will all
now come full circle here.
“Amnesia” is a very strong beginning
track as we are treated to some fine
musicianship as everyone gets down
with their musical instruments. Neo
classical keyboards float around on
the composition, but never drowning
out the other folks. A technical
rhythm section is exploited here as
the drums are performed flawlessly
with some difficult time changes and
as for the guitar work, forget about
it. It is supreme. Martin LaMar’s
voice is top notch as he is able to
project through the speakers with
greatness. It’s strong, manly and
full of conviction much in the way
that Tomas Englund’s from EVERGREY
is. This may be mid paced, but
filled with excitement and
unpredictability.
“Pain”
just absolutely goes for the throat
as everything gets beefed up ten
fold with quick feet work on the
double bass drumming and the six
stringers have more oomph in them.
The thing that remains consistent
here is the professionalism as it
never gets sloppy or loses identity.
The neo classical elements remain
intact and are utilized, but used in
moderation. “The Eve Suite” is the
second longest epic tune on here and
it’s a mixed bag of power ballad and
heaviness that is all mixed in a
cauldron very well. It never leaves
you bored. Only intrigued. The first
half of the disc is pretty straight
forward without getting quirky until
we hit “Not From This World” which
gets down with the funky Jazz fusion
and adds some atmospheric moments.
However, it remains a joy to hear as
it won’t deter you unlike other
undreground artists in this genre.
In the end, what the guys have
released is nothing short of breath
taking as you are taken on a
whirlwind of sounds that are always
fresh and original. There is a
perfect blend of past meeting the
present and taking the music to new
dimensions. It’s loud, passionate,
angry and in the end… it’s supreme!
(Online November 27,
2006) |
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TOMORROW'S EVE - MIRROR OF
CREATION 2 - GENESIS II (B+/B) Lion
Music,
2006
12 tracks (13th hidden), RT: 68:48
Prog metal is everywhere these days and Tomorrow's
Eve are here to throw their hat in the ring with a
powerful follow-up to 2003's MIRROR OF CREATION.
Starting off with an Evergrey-styled intro the band
launch into the decidedly Dream Theater-inspired
crunch of "Amnesia," showing a strong grasp of
expected prog metal skills. Next up is "Pain" and
here we are treated to a heavier animal, new
vocalist Martin LeMar (Lalu) especially good at
conveying aggression with intensity. A few average
tracks ensue but then we are introduced to the truly
excellent "The Market Of Umbra," with a riff to die
for and some emotionally satisfying vocals from
LeMar. Female vocals appear on "Not From This World"
and honestly this is beginning to sound just a bit
cliched, but it's done well and does provide some
sonic variation. Another killer riff hits us on
"Irreversible" and there is some really skillful and
spirited playing on tracks like "Human Device" and
epic closer "The Trials Of Man." The production is
OK but a bit raw and I can't help thinking I've
heard a lot of this before but Tomorrow's Eve play
with such fire and conviction that you can forgive
some of the similarity in sound to their peers. I
suspect Tomorrow's Eve would be a killer band to see
live and I look forward to hearing them progress on
subsequent albums. Good stuff with lots of
potential...
- Neal Woodall (MysticX9@gmail.com)
Detritus Rock/Metal e-zine
"Rock Hard With A Purpose"
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Detritus/
http://www.myspace.com/detritusezine
Tomorrow's Eve
Mirror of Creation 2 Lion Music
Comments: They are promoted as very heavy, very
melodic and very accessible, and the truth is, that
is certainly an accurate assessment. This record is
the continuation of the last one Mirror of
Creation released in 2003. After much tension
among the band, the band has been reassembled with
only Rainer Grund and Oliver Scwickert remaining.
The concept of these albums according to the band’s
Lion Music site is: "A man wakes up in a dirty alley
with no idea who he is. He is badly hurt and taken
to a hospital, and soon enough, everyone has given
up on trying to find out more about his identity -
everyone except for one doctor. She takes him in and
tries to help him remember. Yet, the more he
remembers, the less he wants to. As certain
fragments of his past finally return to him, he
understands the he was no ordinary man, that he grew
up as part of an experiment which he himself then
brought to a bloody end and the doctor who is taking
care of him, may have been involved.” Kind of sounds
like the Operation Mindcrime themes of
Queesryche doesn’t it?
The focus here musically on the follow up Mirror
of Creation 2- Genesis II seems to be powerful
vocals above everything else. And with new lead
singer Martin LeMar, Tomorrow’s Eve succeeds in this
respect for sure. The guitars are handled by Grund
and consist of power metal riffing throughout as
well as several well timed progressive metal guitar
leads. The lead work is best seen on tracks six “Not
from This World” and nine “Distant Murmurs.” Heavy
as much of it is there are the traditional
progressive metal elements like outstanding
keyboards from Oliver Schwickert which can be seen
pure bass guitar from Chris Doerr and solid drumming
of Tom Diener. But the songs are framed for Le Mar
to star and he steps up big time.
On track four “The Eve Suite” which has five sub
parts in it, the keys act as almost a piano at times
in a slow song and LeMar has to sing both rock and
soft rock vocals. His sounds range from Geoff Tate
sounding metal vocals to classic Yes vocalist Jon
Anderson's higher pitched range. The production
quality is good and the length is prototypical
progressive metal style of over an hour of music.
The last track “The Trials of Man” is 17 minutes
long and covers a lot of musical territory. It has
soft tones with piano, killer shred lead guitar work,
powerful riffs and LeMar belting out wonderful
vocals. Twelve minutes in there is silence for about
four minutes, then at 16 minutes a rock piano rhythm
emerges from the darkness 'til the end of the song.
Folks, this is an interesting musical journey that
fans of progressive rock and metal should enjoy. A
little more lead guitar would be nice from Grund,
but the times he does approach solos they are well
done. This album is less than spectacular but better
then most.
Band Lineup:
Martin LeMar - vocals
Rainer Grund - guitars
Oliver Schwickert - keys
Chris Doerr - bass
Tom Diener – drums
Track Listing:
01 - Man Without A Name (0:46)
02 - Amnesia (6:33)
03 - Pain (3:25)
04 - The Eve Suite (9:00)
I) A Gentle Light
II) Shelter And Hope
III) Days Turn Into Weeks
IV) Eve
05 - The Market Of Umbra (4:48)
06 - Not From This World (4:14)
07 - Eye For An Eye (0:59)
08 - Irreversible (4:56)
09 - Distant Murmurs (5:31)
10 - Rebirth (5:44)
11 - Human Device (5:45)
12 - The Trials Of Man (17:00)
HRH Rating: 7.6/10
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Tomorrow’s Eve – Mirror Of
Creation 2 ~ Genesis II
Tracklist: Man
Without A Name (0:46), Amnesia
(6:33), Pain (3:25), The Eve
Suite (9:00), The Market Of
Umbra (4:48), Not From This
World (4:14), Eye For An Eye
(0:59), Irreversible (4:56),
Distant Murmurs (5:31), Rebirth
(5:44), Human Device (5:45), The
Trials Of Man (17:00)
Three years after
Mirror Of Creation (reviewed
by colleague Andy Read), the
German prog rock band
Tomorrow’s Eve continue
their concept with this new
album. Musically and lyrically
there are obvious ties to the
first album and a few questions
that were left open by the
Mirror Of Creation album are
answered on this new release.
For readers who do not know this
band, they play true classical
progressive metal with obvious
musical links to bands like
Evergrey, POS,
Poverty’s No Crime and
Queensr˙che, in short: very
heavy at times, very melodic but
also very accessible. Since the
first two albums the line-up of
the band has changed, leaving
only Rainer Grund (guitar) and
Oliver Schwickert (keys) as
original members. Later on Tom
Diener (drums) and Chris Doerr (bass
guitar) joined the band until
Martin LeMar (vocals) finally
completed the new Tomorrow’s Eve
in 2004. Two years later the
band found in Lion Music a new
label and so they are back with
an impressive concept album.
The CD kicks off with a
typical prog metal track filled
with staccato riffs, melodic
vocals, piano parts and lots of
musically interesting solos,
clearly stating the band’s
influences, like POS, Vanden
Plas, Symphony X and
Ivory Tower. The first
memorable song is called The
Eve Suite, a track with a
rather spooky musical atmosphere,
lots of rhythm changes and this
is also the first song where
singer Le Mar reminds me of
Geoff Tate, the lead
vocalist of Queensr˙che. The two
tracks that follow also sound
like that famous Seattle band,
mainly due to the female voice
in a song Not From This World.
Eye For An Eye is a
piano and vocal intermezzo
before the band continues with
its rather familiar prog metal
sound. Especially a song like
Irreversible brings back
memories of the fantastic
Promised Land album.
Sometimes the band goes over the
top, as in Human Device,
a song that really makes your
head spin around and around…
After five songs the music of
Tomorrow’s Eve is getting a bit
too familiar and the musical
diversity starts to fade away.
But the band saves the best for
last as they end this CD with
the epic (17 minute) The
Trials Of Man. A piano intro
is followed by lots of heavy
guitar riffs and shreds, before
the vocal parts come in and make
this song really bombastic and
dramatic. Of course you can also
enjoy some really good guitar
and keyboard solos during this
song, but after 11 minutes the
music fades away, leaving the
listener with 5 minutes of
bloody silence at the end. How
original, please give me a break
here, why end this rather good
prog metal album in such a
boring and also predictable way????
As it is a concept album I
will give you all a short
summary of the story, which kind
of reminds me of an Ayreon
story… A man wakes up in a dirty
alley with no clue who he is,
and where he is. He is badly
hurt and he is taken to
hospital. Nobody seems to be
missing him and after a while
everyone had given up on trying
to find more about his identity.
A certain doctor however takes
him in and tries to help him to
remember. However the more he
remembers the less he wants to.
As certain fragments finally
return to him he understands
that he was no ordinary man. He
grew up as part of an experiment
which he brought to a bloody end
by himself. The doctor who takes
care of him, may also have been
involved, so how is this going
to end…..
Enjoy the story but most of
all enjoy the music as this CD
is a must for prog metal lovers!
Conclusion: 8.5 out of 10
MARTIEN KOOLEN
www.dprp.net |
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Tomorrow’s
Eve - Mirror Of Creation 2 –
Genesis II
Lion Music
file under
Prog/sympho metal
 Winston:
A mysterious intro opens the
second album of Tomorrow's Eve.
After the well-received debut
album 'The Unexpected World' the
German based band steered into
dire straits but after the
recruitment of three new members
they were able to restart the
band in time. New singer Martin
Le Mar is a true discovery and
shines on 'Mirror Of Creation',
a conceptual album, you know, an
album with a storyline.
Concept albums are common these
days in progrock and metal and
that threatens the originality.
I often wonder where I have
heard or read certain storyparts
before but fortunately the music
is what it's really about. The
ferocity and strongness of this
album is what surprised me. Sure
there the ever present Dream
Theater like breaks but
Tomorrow's Eve offers more than
just that. I detect some old
style Vicious Rumors even I
swhat I realize while I'm
writing this review. In the
album concept it is expected to
shift between heavy and calmer
songs and that is also the case
here. Singer LeMar keeps it all
together really fine and in 'Not
From This World' a female singer
called Jenny Klos (Cheeno)
accompanies him and that sounds
really nice. A concept album
often offers a central piece of
music and yep, also present here;
'The Eve Suite' (of nine minutes)
but also with 'The Trials Of
Man'. Last mentioned song with
seventeen minutes is the album
closer even. An album the band
can be proud of and so the fans
will be too.
Rating: 85/100
(details)
www.lords-of-metal.nl
http://www.tomorrows-eve.de |
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Artist: Tomorrow’s Eve
Album: Mirror Of Creation 2: Genesis II (2006)
Label: Lion Music
Website:
http://www.t-eve.com
Reviewer:
Bill Knispel
www.progscape.com
|
Track List:
01 - Man Without A Name (0:46)
02 - Amnesia (6:33)
03 - Pain (3:25)
04 - The Eve Suite (9:00)
I) A Gentle Light
II) Shelter And Hope
III) Days Turn Into Weeks
IV) Eve
05 - The Market Of Umbra (4:48)
06 - Not From This World (4:14)
07 - Eye For An Eye (0:59)
08 - Irreversible (4:56)
09 - Distant Murmurs (5:31)
10 - Rebirth (5:44)
11 - Human Device (5:45)
12 - The Trials Of Man (17:00)
“A man wakes up in a dirty
alley with no idea who he is. He is badly hurt and taken
to a hospital, but no one seems to be missing him, and
soon enough, everyone has given up on trying to find out
more about his identity- Everyone except for one doctor.
For her own reasons, she takes him in and tries to help
him remember. Yet the more he remembers, the less he
wants to. As certain fragments of his past finally
return to him, he understands the he was no ordinary
man, that he grew up as part of an experiment which he
himself then brought to a bloody end... and the doctor
who is taking care of him, who has fallen in love with
him and whom he has fallen in love with, may have been
involved.”
Such is the premise of Mirror Of Creation 2: Genesis
II, the third album from German progressive metal
band Tomorrow’s Eve. It is also a direct sequel to their
2003 album, suitably titled Mirror Of Creation.
“Amnesia” is the first proper track on this album, a
solid opener with some excellent piano playing and
impassioned vocals from Martin LeMar...one can hear the
emotion in his voice as the song fades, his voice
intoning the repeated outro lyrics “No life in me...a
life without memory.” Powerful stuff. A brief keyboard
wash and ambient interlude, and the listener is then
beaten to the floor by the screams and blast beat of “Pain,”
the following track. LeMar shows ample vocal flexibility
here, his vocals screamed without being incoherent,
filled with fire and vitriol.
“The Eve Suite” melds a number of elements together,
from quiet piano and vocal sections to full band
movements with layered vocals and a mid tempo feel that
never slides to cliche power ballad territory. At times,
LeMar’s vocals on the extended suite remind of Geoff
Tate, but never to the point of conscious aping of his
style.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a prog album without an epic,
and Tomorrow’s Eve does not disappoint with their
17-minute album closer, “The Trials Of Man.” Opening
with a simple repeated piano figure, the track builds,
adding harmonized guitars and subtle synthesized organ.
Ultimately, “The Trials Of Man” distills everything the
band has to offer into one epic slice of melodic,
accessible progressive metal that never feels contrived
or over long.
I don’t know how accessible this album’s story line will
be without having heard the first part. Having said
this, Tomorrow’s Eve has risen above the majority of the
prog metal masses, displaying strong storytelling skills,
exemplary musicianship without falling prey to needless
wanking, and genuinely interesting, multi-faceted vocals.
Mirror Of Creation 2: Genesis II is a powerful
album, offering new elements on repeated listens, and
Tomorrow’s Eve should be at or neat the top of most prog
metal fan’s want lists.
Martin LeMar - vocals
Rainer Grund - guitars
Oliver Schwickert - keys
Chris Doerr - bass |
Tomorrow's Eve:
Mirror of Creation 2
 Germany's
Tomorrow's Eve
went through a
huge lineup
change after
releasing their
2003 album
Mirror of
Creation, an
ambitious sci-fi
concept album.
With the
exception of
guitarist Rainer
Grund and
keyboardist
Oliver
Schwickert, the
band has now a
completely new
rhythm section
and a new singer.
This is the
highly
anticipated
successor to
their
well-received
Mirror of
Creation, as
the story picks
up right where
the first disc
left off.
You may be
familiar with
vocalist Martin
LeMar through
his work in
Lalu's Oniric
Metal,
another
progressive
metal album that
is heavily
accentuated by
killer riffs,
spectacular
keyboards, and
diverse vocals
that range from
melodic to
smooth to
aggressive.
Martin LeMar has
without doubt
brought new life
into Tomorrow's
Eve. Although he
doesn't possess
a perfect range,
his singing is
powerful and
intense. He is
able to shift
from nice clean
tones to
aggressive,
semi-growled
screams in
places to convey
feelings of pain,
anger and fear.
Though he has
his own voice,
he reminds me of
the singers in
Spheric Universe
Experience and
Poverty's No
Crime in that he
constantly
employs varied
singing styles,
especially
during the
heavier, more
guitar-dominated
passages. One of
the songs also
has me thinking
of Savatage
circa The
Wake of Magellan.
The midtempo
track "Rebirth"
not only
signifies an
important
turning point in
the concept, but
it also recalls
Zak Stevens'
over-dubbed
counterpoint
vocals. LeMar's
voice has a more
aggressive tone
though.
Musically,
the band has
retained their
heaviness, if
not take it a
step further.
The groove of "Amnesia"
perfectly
underscores
distantly
echoing
symphonic
keyboards and
Tom Diener's raw
drum sound. The
riffage is
incredibly thick,
especially when
merged with the
stomping charge
of Chris Doerr's
bass. LeMar,
however, carries
over a melodic
warmth to the
piece, spewing
out terrific
vocal lines and
draping them
over a beautiful
piano outro,
much like the
stuff we've come
to hear on
Vanden Plas'
heavier
material. The
band launches
into faster
songs on "Pain"
and the
mult-segmented
"The Eve Suite",
bringing forth
highly complex
arrangements and
dark keyboards.
"The Eve Suite"
is a
particularly
engaging number,
as it's made up
several
movements, each
highlighting a
different aspect
of the band.
Martin LeMar
is joined by
female vocalist
Jennie Kloos on
the Middle
Eastern-tinged
"The Market of
Umbra", a song
with great
vocals and rich
keyboard effects;
and the
challenging "Not
from This
World", where
the two singers'
duet soars above
seas of melodies
and a killer
guest synth lead
by Vivien Lalu (Lalu,
Hubi Meisel). On
the instrumental
front, there are
plenty of unison
solos on
"Irreversible"
and "Distant
Murmurs", which
reminds me of
Circus Maximus
because of its
great backing
harmonies and
searing electric
guitar.
With all that
said, the band
saves the best
for the last.
"The Trials of
Man" encompasses
everything one
might be looking
for in prog
metal. At
seventeen
minutes (though
there's a long
silence after
the
twelve-minute
mark before the
song is wrapped
up with a sweet
acoustic guitar
coda), the song
is written to
perfection.
Enchanting piano
and synth work,
lots of
unconventional
staccato-style
guitar riffage,
pounding bass,
and soaring
vocal harmonies.
As a matter of
fact, this song
features LeMar's
most gripping
melodies on the
album, as he
truly opts for a
different style
that is not too
common in the
genre.
The
production of
the album is
average; it is
not as defined
and clear as I
like my prog,
but it fits the
music. Phil
Hillen's stereo
mixing dictates
a more
in-your-face
attitude that
sits very well
with the tones
of the
instruments, as
both the drums
and rhythm
guitars have an
undeniable grit
to them. LeMar
does strain in
certain parts,
especially when
the songs call
for clean,
Khan-like
moments. In
those sections,
he either
chooses to tone
it down or
undersing. On
the heavier,
crunch-filled
section, however,
he is flawless
and hard to
surpass. Also,
considering this
is a conceptual
work, he likes
to move from one
style to another,
changing vocals
quite often to
successfully
accommodate the
mood.
Mirror of
Creation 2
is recommended
to fans of
melodic prog
metal who enjoy
lots of guitar
crunch in their
music a la
Vanden Plas'
Christ 0,
Lalu's Oniric
Metal,
Evergrey's
Solitude
Dominance
Tragedy, and
Beyond
Twilight's
Section X.
Track
Listing
- Man
Without a
Name
- Amnesia
- Pain
- The Eve
Suite
- The
Market of
Umbra
- Not from
This World
- Eye for
an Eye
-
Irreversible
- Distant
Murmurs
- Rebirth
- Human
Device
- The
Trials of
Man
Added:
October 22nd 2006
Reviewer:
Murat Batmaz
www.seaoftranquility.org
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Tomorrow's Eve
'Mirror of Creation II - Genesis II
Can't say I had ever heard this band. Tomorrow's Eve comes
to us from the Lion Music label out of Finland. I was really
surprised at the quality of this band. Very cool artwork
doesn't always equate to good album. In this bands case,
great artwork equates to great music. This band has the
ability to come across melodic, yet still rock you out.
Another musician that I became a fan of guests on the track
'Not of this World'. Vivien Lalu offers up some guest
keyboarding. This album is conceptual in nature, and I think
has a pretty cool storyline that brings it all together. The
story revolves around a man with no identity and the fact
that he is apparently part of an experiment. The experiment
involves a doctor whom he is falling in love with. The
problem is she may be more involved then he may have wanted.
As far as this story goes, it reminds me a bit of the way
Savatage writes their conceptual pieces. Nonetheless, it's
pretty cool stuff and adds a visual element to the album
that makes it work all the more. Although these songs bind
together to form the complete picture, I still found my
favorites. These would include the rocking opener 'Amnesia'
that is preceded by a short intro track. I also liked
'Pain', 'The Eve Suite' which adds a multi-part track to the
album. 'Not From this World' as I already mentioned, along
with 'Irreversible' and 'Instant Murmurs'. Be sure to take
in the story and then follow along with this album. It makes
it all the more enjoyable.
Overall
Great stuff here! I had never heard these guys until this
paarticular release and found it outstanding. The story was
great and the music backed it up very well. It's a pretty
solid effort that I think should not be missed. Definitely
recommended from us here at the Resource!
Progressive metal is a tough genre to be classified
as. It has to be. Once a prog-metal band starts
playing their long instrumental passages laden with
heavy riffs and soaring solos, or the
thought-provoking and sometimes cryptic lyrics are
heard many metal fans scream out “what the hell is
this!!!” Then there are fans like me who hear the
complexity of the music and the extended length of
the songs and thinks “I can’t wait to listen to this
again.” Such is the case with me and
Tomorrow’s Eve. When I hear the last note
on the last song I feel two emotions. One, I am sad
that the journey is over. Two, how lucky I am to
have the chance to listen to it all over again.
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Track By Track ::.. |
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This release is a concept album (whaaaa?
A concept album from a progressive metal
band? Unheard of…. ;-) ). The story
is about a man who wakes up in an alley
with no memory of himself. A lone
doctor takes up the cause to help the
man rediscover his past, only along the
way he begins to realize that his past
was far from ordinary. OK, so at first
it sounds like the plot line for a
direct to video movie. Doesn’t bother
me one bit, though, because the music
takes on such a prominent role I tend to
forget about the story and focus almost
entirely on the booming bottom end and
insane riffs. This is one heavy CD.
The production really emphasizes the
rhythm section and the deep, dark
guitars. The drawback to this is all
cymbal work is somewhat muted, and the
excellent keyboard work is too far in
the background. But then again this is
a guitar and rhythm section oriented
album, so keyboards do take somewhat of
a back seat. Either way, I would have
like to hear a better mix to bring out
the higher notes, which, I think, would
give the CD a fuller sound. As with
most progressive metal albums, some of
the songs get quite long. The average
length here is around the 5-6 minute
mark, including one 9 minute song and
one 17 minute song. I do like the
longer songs, as long as it does not
overstay its welcome. That does not
happen with Tomorrow’s Eve.
Each song contains just the right length
of introduction, instrumental prowess
and lyrical passages. Actually, there
were times where I found myself wishing
that a song was not over yet.
And what of the songs, you ask?
Well, first three (not counting the 46
second opener) are sure to take you on
quite a ride. Amnesia, track
2, begins as a mid-tempo rocker for the
first 30 seconds or so and seems
ordinary. Then the band shows what they
can do. The heaviness of the guitars
and rhythm section take over and, when
played at full volume, will rattle your
ribcage. Track 3, Pain, speeds
the tempo up drastically. This song
really kicks and is one of my favorites
on the CD. Track 4, The Eve-Suite,
is the 9 minute song made up of several
different parts. In comparison to
Pain, which is up tempo all the
way, The Eve-Suite runs the
gamut of different moods and tempos.
The song still carries the same overall
heaviness as the previous 2 songs, yet
it also shows a softer side as well in
parts. The rest of the CD pretty much
follows the same winning formula.
Bottom heavy production, impressive
drumming, and heavy guitars back the
solid vocals. |
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TOMORROW’S
EVE ‘THE MIRROR OF CREATION 2: GENESIS 2’ (LION MUSIC/BERTUS)
Yet another strong
Progressive Metal release, although not as good as the new CD of
labelmates SEVENTH WONDER. Nevertheless, the German band TOMORROW’S EVE
has released a very impressive CD, which is their 3rd CD so
far. The album contains slightly raw/rougher but still typical present
day melodic progressive metal, kinda like PAGAN’S MIND and THRESHOLD,
but a bit rawer like I said, so not as polished and no big time
choruses, although it is still pure melodic progressive metal like we
have heard it many times, but still also this album is very impressive
from start to finish. 12 songs are included, of which some are very
lengthy, such as the 17 minutes counting closing track “The trials of
man”. Highlight is the fantastic opener “Amnesia”, with it’s strong
vocals and catchy melodic chorus. Yet another record that beats the last
couple of DREAM THEATER records. It seems like for good new progmetal
record you have to look further than the major label releases and go to
LION MUSIC for example, the Finnish label has released some superb prog
metal the past few years and the new TOMORROW’S EVE CD is one of them!
(Points: 8.6
out of 10)
Strutter magazien, Netherlands
Tomorrow's Eve - Mirror Of Creation II - Genesis II
Lion Music (LMC185)
Rating - 8.5/10
Review Dougie
www.hardrockhouse.com
|
The inordinately long titled 'Mirror Of Creation II -
Genesis II' is the third album from Germany's
Tomorrow’s Eve and is the sequel to the bands
previous 2003 release which was, unsurprisingly 'Mirror Of
Creation' Since that particular album
the band have undergone
some line up changes, with only the guitarist and keyboard
player surviving for the recording of the new record. Now
bear with me this may be the strangest review you have ever
read!...
My initial thoughts on
popping MOCII (I can't be bothered typing the name in full)
into the CD player centered around, another month another
concept album... At least the concept is explained (see
later) and after the first listen the thought, which often
strikes at these moments “My god Queensryche and Dream
Theater have a lot to answer for!!” passed through my mind.
Just take a listen to opener proper 'Amnesia' and the said
Dream Theater comparisons are obvious and after three
listens I was beginning to lose interest in the album and
was about to pass the review on to some one else as I was
struggling big style.
However I always try and
do what I say I’m going to do and gave the album one last
chance and suddenly it all started to fall into place. As
I’ve stated the album is a sequel
to Mirror of Creation which was
about genetic engineering I believe. The concept being built
around
a man being found in alley, taken to
hospital and utilizes the opening line is "I don’t remember
any thing" (Operation Mindcrime anyone?). Despite appeals
nobody comes forward to identify him and everybody in the
hospital soon gives up on his case, all except for one
doctor who has her own reasons for identifying him. His
memory slowly returns over the course of the album what he
is and what the connection with the doctor is. Intrigued,
well listen to the album and find out...
As I stated at the start of the review I struggled with
this album but repeated listening revealed more and more
depth to proceedings and whilst I still stand with my
original musical comparisons the more I listened the more
different influences came to light. Bands like Vanden Plas,
Evergrey Everon and Poverty’s
No Crime all sprang to mind.
Without a doubt
Tomorrow's Eve, as a band, are all excellent musicians and
new vocalist Martin LeMar is a real star with an excellent
set of pipes that allows him to sing in several different
styles as each song and it’s dynamics dictate. Everything
from clean to power metal vocals and it all fit’s the songs
to a T. Add to that recipe the guest vocalists portraying
different characters throughout the album and yet another
dimension is brought into play.
MOCII is an album that
one really needs to sit down and listen to closely, and in
its entirety, to even begin to make sense of and it isn't
by any means by immediate album, but rather one that grows
and unveils itself with repeated plays and thus rewards the
listener for patience as more and greater musical depths
appear and the story becomes clearer and clearer.
Mirror Of Creation II -
Genesis II is released on September 22nd via Lion Music
Let us know your views on
'Mirror Of Creation II
- Genesis II'' |
|
Track List
Man Without A Name
Amnesia
Pain
The Eve Suite
I) A Gentle Light
II) Shelter And Hope
III) Days Turn Into Weeks
IV) Eve
The Market Of Umbra
Not From This World
Eye For An Eye
Irreversible
Distant Murmurs
Rebirth
Human Device
The Trials Of Man
Line Up
Martin LeMar - Vocals
Rainer Grund - Guitars
Oliver Schwickert - Keys
Chris Doerr - Bass
Tom Diener – Drums |
TOMORROW'S EVE 'Mirror of Creation 2 - Genesis II'
Lion Music (2006) www.lionmusic.com
The band's second album and the first with new vocalist Martin LeMar.
The album is a concept one based on the storyline of man who has no idea who
he is and how his memory starts to come back thanks to a nurse who looks
after him. Buta ll is not it seems and both may have met before as part of a
experiment that met a sticky end... An intriguing plotline which coupled
with the music brings to mind Queensryche and Savatage. There is as you'd
expect on a progressive metal album like this short interludes, lots of
riffs and some immense choruses (when Jenny Clos joins in on 'Not From This
World' you get an album highlight).
Centre piece is the 17 minutes epic 'The Trials Of Man' which
encompasses all the main elements of this genre - rapid fire drums, walls of
guitars, soaring vocals and keyboard solos. This is a very enjoyable release
and one that would put some more established bands to shame. LeMar is just
the right sort of vocalist for this music - big and powerful yet able to
sing the mellower moments with ease as well.
****
Jason Ritchie
Reviews Editor
Editor, Classic Rock Newswire
Band:
Tomorrow's Eve
Title:
Mirror Of Creation 2 - Genesis II
Label: Lion Music |
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Following on
from the bands 2003 release 'Mirror Of Creation', Tomorrow's Eve return
with the next chapter 'Mirror of Creation 2 – Genesis II'. The album
continues where 'Mirrors of Creation' left off, with the band still
retaining that strong progressive feel both lyrically and musically,
with a new vocalist at the mike in the form of Martin LeMar, and a new
rhythm section with Tom Diener on drums and Chris Doerr on bass, the
band plan to build on the success of 'Mirror Of Creation' and in turn
start a new chapter in Tomorrows Eve’s story.
The album
follows the story of a man who wakes up in an alley with amnesia and
after no one seems to miss him, one of the doctors looking after him
takes him in and she tries to help him recall who he is. But then what
unfolds is a story of a man who was part of an experiment and one he
brought to a bloody end by his own hand. The twist in the tail is that
the doctor who has by this time fallen for the stranger, may actually
have had something to do with the experiment.
The album
opens up with the intro ‘Man Without A Name’ which leads into the
complexities of the album. Firstly with ‘Amnesia’, a track of epic
proportions which starts off with a thumping bass line which leads into
crescendo of bass, drums, and keys that paves the way for the intense
vocals of LeMar and the rich guitars of Grund.
The album
opens up with the power injection that is ‘Pain’, a storming track full
of vigour and tenaciousness that it simply defies words, a truly awesome
track.
The next track
‘The Eve Suite’ is an epic in all aspects of the word, this nine minute
ensemble is broken down into four acts, with each one unveiling another
part of the mans story as he loses faith in man, but as all seems lost
Eve the doctor shows him in fact all is not lost. The track itself is
as complex as they come with varying melody and tempo changes from the
haunting narrative moments to the more heavy bass ridden sections and
the twisting guitars solos, this track has it all.
After the
intensity of 'The Eve Suite' things take a definite Eastern vibe with
‘The Market Of Umbra’. Joining LeMar on vocals are the haunting vocal
melodies of Jenny Klos who brings another dimension to the track, as do
the soul searching guitars riff of Grund, and the mid section keyboard/guitar
duet in particular is simply outstanding.
Klos also
provides some vocals on the next song ‘Not From This World’, this time
she duets with LeMar on what is one of my favourite tracks off the
album, not only because of the harmonic duets between Klos and LeMar,
but also because of some fantastic keyboard sections and some quite
flawless guitars, this is backed as ever by the powerhouse rhythm
section.
The shortest
track on the album at only 59 seconds long is ‘Eye For An Eye’ which
acts as a short interlude to allow the album to build its fervour for
the progressive and almost pretentious ‘Irreversible’. Another slow
builder that gives way to the outstanding power driven ‘Distant Murmurs’,
yet another fine example of the band mixing the heavy bass with the
melodic vocals to great effect, while still managing to keep that
menacing feel to the track.
The album and
story continues with ‘Rebirth’, another monster of a track with once
again that mix of heavy and gentle moments and those passion filled
vocals of LeMar the catalyst to it all.
As each track
unfolds another chapter in the story is told. The mood builds with the
passion and dynamism of the album in the form of ‘Human Device’, which
almost reaches grandiose heights before things come to a head with a
track that defies the word epic at seventeen minutes long.
The closing song ‘The Trials Of Man’ brings the whole album to a head
and tells of reason behind the experiments and how one man holds the
future of the world in his hands. This is progressive metal at its
finest and I defy anyone who hears this album to say otherwise. This
will surely be the bands ‘Operation Mindcrime’ and will bring Tomorrow's
Eve to the forefront of the progressive metal scene for many years to
come. This is a new Genesis for the genre and for the progressive metal
bands of the future to follow. |
Tracklisting:
1. Man Without A Name
2. Amnesia
3. Pain
4. The Eve Suite
l) The Eve Suite
ll) A Gentle Light
lll) Days Turn Into Works
lV) Eve
5. The Market Of Umbra
6. Not From This World
7. Eye For An Eye
8. Irreversible
9. Distant Murmurs
10. Rebirth
11. Human Device
12. The Trials Of Man |
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