Some bands really deserve a compilation of their best tracks – and the Progressive Metal kings THRESHOLD are among these elected ones. The Brits have elated our ears and hearts with ambitious music since years on ten releases. Thereby the special allure comes up because the group connects demanding as well as sophisticated arrangements on the one hand and ear candy catchiness on the other hand. Slipstream proves this way of composing with a fine riff and egregious refrains impressively. The next acoustic direct hit follows instantly in form of Light And Space. In further course very good songs and ideas occur and it is of no importance if a song lasts for five or nearly eleven minutes. Sometimes the guys simply rock, then again they slow down and next minute they celebrate instrumental insanity. THRESHOLD knows how to combine powerful guitar chords, an expressive voice and variable song structures. Consequently in suspenseful and title giving The Ravages Of Time carried passages, heavy guitars and felicitous, partly distorted voices pass the mike to each other. Modern influences add some zest to this delicious composition in addition. The common keyboard solo does not miss and is a proper thing for good form like a fine guitar solo. THRESHOLD focus on the felicitous interplay of successful vocals and instrumental finesse, fortunately without presenting too long solo parts. The guitar melodies are quite honestly beauteous and complement the powerful riffs at best. Over and above my favorite THRESHOLD piece is also present on this release, namely A Tension Of Souls – as a consequence I am absolutely satisfied. In my opinion the guys only could avoid all the way modern trips, but they happen sporadically anyway.
The packaging is done fondly, the lyrics’ book offers a short band history, all texts and releases in compact manner. As a matter of course the cover itself is very stylish and so there is nothing left to be desired also in optical regards. The Ravages Of Time is therefore a musical and optical delicacy for Progressive Metal fans!