Review by Denis on July 17, 2003.

Down! Down you pervert! Stay calm, because there's nothing for you to be excited about. You won't be able to satisfy your voyeurism fantasies here. Circle II Circle is a solo project from Zak Stevens, the former front man of Savatage. Early this century, he felt like starting a new band and for once he would be able to write all the lyrics and vocal melodies. To help him along the way, he gathered a couple of guitar players, Matt La Porte & John Werner, bass player Kevin Rothney, drummer Chris Kinder and keyboardist John Zahner.

Circle II Circle sounds like a moderate heavy metal band. Nothing too extreme is to be found here. The vocals are mid to high range and clean, including some choirs vocals, namely on the songs 'Fields Of Sorrow' and 'Walls,' the latter which includes piano, acoustic guitar, and Queen influenced vocals. All of the songs are good, but to be honest, nothing great, unfortunately. One of the weaknesses of "Watching In Silence" is that the production lacks the punch and energy that it needs. Even on some of the best songs like 'Sea Of White' and 'Lies,' the production just doesn't cut it. Perhaps the best example of a song that could have been much better is 'The Circle,' seeing as it sounds too muddy for its own good. Some calmer compositions give a certain variety to the album, such as 'Forgiven,' or the closing number that was already mentioned.

Bottom Line: A pretty good debut, but nothing to go crazy about. Listen before buying.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7
Originality: 6
Atmosphere: 6
Production: 7
Overall: 6

Rating: 6.6 out of 10