Band: Roswell Six

CD Title: “Terra Incognita: A Line in The Sand”

Label: ProgRock Records

Label Website: www.progrockrecords.com

Release Date: 2010

Here we have the second part of the Terra Icognita trilogy from the pen of Kevin J. Anderson. This CD entitled Terra Incognita: A line in the Sand is intended to work with the second book in the series entitledThe Map of All Things. And like the first part of this project the two are mutually exclusive and yet work together in that the story told through the music features the same characters but deals with elements of the story not found in the book. It’s a true companion piece. This time around the sound is heavier, grittier and the mastermind behind it is none other than Henning Pauly here performing all the instruments and orchestrations. The vocals are provided by: Steve Walsh (KANSAS), Michael Sadler (ex-SAGA), Sass Jordan, Nick Storr (THE THIRD ENDING), Charlie Dominici (ex-DREAM THEATER), Arjen Lucassen (AYREON), Alex Froese (FRAMESHIFT). As with the previous project Roswell Six is a ‘star-studded-affair.’

Things start off with a bang with “Barricades” featuring Steve Walsh on leads vocals after an aggressive musical flourish. It’s probably fair to say the material on A Line in the Sand is more hard rock than it is progressive rock although there are a couple of tracks that make the genre leap such as the instrumental “Battleground” where there are all sorts of musical change-ups. This tracks leads directly into the CD’s closer “Victory” featuring Michael Sadler and a full choir. It’s lushly symphonic and makes for a rousing finish. The emphasis throughout the disc is more on guitar this time, and it’s intended to suit the feel of the story. The keyboards taking a bit of a backseat may disappoint some although the symphonic feel does come through from time to time. At any rate, the musicianship is high and there is much here to recommend to prog fans. I think it’s a record they’ll enjoy; after all it is a concept CD with a larger than life story to tell.

As on the previous Roswell Six outing this is a very polished recording. Pauly is a perfectionist and it shows in his compositions and arrangements. Those who purchased part one will definitely want to get a hold of Part two to follow the story’s arc. Kevin J. Anderson is really on to something here. Releasing a book and supplementary music CD is a great way to cross promote and extend the life of the characters he writes about. It also provides fans another level of appreciation into the story. Once again well done!