Review by Krys on May 31, 2001.

This is not funny anymore. Having the best bands almost in every metal category, Sweden decided to take over the progressive side of metal as well. Their new child, Andromeda, debuts with "Extension Of The Wish" which, from first notes, blows away everything that is out there in prog-metal. Maybe not everything, but damn close and there is no doubt in my mind that their next album will complete the sweep. (Assuming they’ll stay together.)

Lead by the twenty–year–old guitarist Johan Reinholtz, who in a few years will give the run for the money to all best guitarists, Andromeda are destined to leave a mark on metal and set the tone for years to come. The album starts and finishes on very high marks where each song just flows with melody not compromising complexity of the songs or unlimited music skills of its members. I don’t think there are enough words to describe the already high level of achieved musicianship. All songs are perfectly balanced while at this same time being very complex are amazingly easy to listen to. From "The Words Unspoken" to "Arch Angel" astounding guitar riffs and breathtaking leads are combined with youthful passion and enthusiasm. The effect is simply mind-blowing. If during the first few minutes of "In The Deepest Of Waters" you won’t start banging your head, there must be something wrong with your ears. (To say the least!) This is what I call a metal jam built on passion, fury and a really high level of adrenaline. There is no sense to describe each song because each one just blows me away and I don’t want to repeat myself.

Before I shut up I have to mention one more thing though; the rest of the members are not just second fiddle to Johan’s guitar. Martin Hedin’s keyboard passages go hand in hand with guitar riffs and as everything else on this album are not overused and are pulled away at the exact moment before any damage is done. The airtight rhythm section with Gert Daun (bass) and Thomas Lejon (drums) knows when to pump your blood with double bass or when to create just a nice groove. Given no time to prepare the vocal lines, Lawrence Mackrory (ex-Darkane) did a better than impressive job with his part of the record. Although he seems to be the most comfortable in more ‘metalish’ songs like "The Words Unspoken" or "Star Shooter Supreme" he seems a little uncomfortable in more progressive parts. Overall he gave a stellar performance and by no means those little flaws take anything away from this great cd.

Bottom Line: "Only" 9 cause I might run out of the scale for their next release if they progress in their compositions and instrumental skills.

Rating: 9 out of 10