Delta Viridian

Delta Viridian is the fourth full-length from the U.K.'s Progressive/Power Metal band Sandstone. As with previous releases, the music is tight, melodic and catchy. The vocals skew a little higher this time around but suit the music, which ranges from fast and crunchy ("Red Mist") to slow and stately ("Monument.") Keyboards and guitars share melodic duties and the sound is crisp and clean, with the whole production wrapped up with a big, glossy bow. The only downside is the songwriting, which is a bit by the numbers; Sandstone sticks to their set formula and take no risks. This leaves Delta Viridian somewhat sterile. Regardless, this album should please fans of both Empire-era Queensryche, as well as bands like Heavenly, equally well.