Remedy Lane

Sweden's Pain of Salvation had been flirting with a breakthrough sound on each of its previous releases and finally achieved it on Remedy Lane. The true definition of the term progressive is often debated in musical circles and a solid case can be made that too many "prog" bands have relied on a proven formula rather than musical exploration and boundary pushing. Pain of Salvation has not only avoided the genre's typical cliches and stereotypes, but managed to emerge as one of its true innovators. Leader and vocalist Daniel Gildenlow is the heart and soul of this band and gives the music an overwhelming sense of authenticity and maturity. The group's strong pop sensibilities are once again evident and fall somewhere between Fates Warning's Parallels/Inside Out stage, early Genesis, and Pink Floyd. Pain of Salvation knows exactly when to change dynamics, moods, and tempos, and the band's precise execution of such changes is both flawless and inspired. The influence and admiration of Mike Patton is obvious and provides an edge that is maintained through repeated listens. The selections cover a broad range of styles and are held together by a recurring theme, with the standout track being "Chain Sling." Remedy Lane captures Pain of Salvation at its creative peak and proved that the progressive metal genre was still alive and well in 2002. The Japanese version contains additional bonus tracks. ~ Robert Taylor|