JOHN ARCH
"A
Twist of Fate" (Metal Blade; 2003)
Reviewed by Mike SOS
John Arch is the former frontman for progressive rockers Fates Warning, and this release is Arch's first in over 15 years. Even though it's billed as an EP, the two-track release clocks in at nearly 30 minutes, something most prog rock fans will be enthralled with.
Arch isn't completely on his own here. Heavyweight guests such as Joey Vera, Mike Portnoy, and Jim Matheos lend their collective chops to the project. The end result is basically what you'd expect from a prog rock supergroup: lengthy, over-the-top metal that is at times lucid and at others takes you to that faraway place like only a true progressive metal solo can do.
With a line-up like this, and a history this rich behind it all, John Arch's comeback proves to be long overdue, yet heartily welcomed.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright ? 2004 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
