U.K. progressive metal act Awake return after a four-year hiatus to produce their second album, “Forever More”. The album features a twin guitar attack in brothers Andy and Steven Cole and a heavier sound than their debut.

The album is good, solid, metal with driving rhythm and not much in the way of progressive tempos – which is a good thing. Simon Shedwell provides a fine voice for the music, with a vocal range akin to Gary Hughes of Ten fame. There is not one poor song on the album and one enjoys the whole musical experience…but there isn’t a track that grabs you by the throat, either.

A very good listen…I expect their next release to be the breakthrough they’re looking for.

Nick van der Meulen