After Forever
Exordium

THE REVIEW

After two excellent albums such as "Prison Of Desire" (2000) and "Decipher", which established the band as one of the best and most inspired of the genre, Mark Jansen, growler, guitarist, and the main mind of the band, leaves the Dutch group due to differences with the other members. Indeed, he is closer to neoclassical music, while the rest of the band is more inclined towards the heavy side. Mark will later find the realization of his desires in Epica. But now, with the conflicting element removed, how will the band evolve?

In 2003, the combo released a mini CD to quell the fans' appetite before the release of the album "Invisible Circles."

"Exordium," a significant title that aims to represent the new course of the band, a true rebirth.

Firstly, everything is reinterpreted in a more refined and polished perspective compared to the past, decidedly more progressive, but despite this the tracks are not heavy to listen to; on the contrary, they present themselves as the most catchy and expansive pieces ever written (up to that point) by the young band. The guitar riffs have become more robust and decisive, and Floor Jansen's voice has certainly become more versatile compared to the first albums: indeed, I had never heard her sing in such a carefree and playful manner.

The CD opens with the introductory "Line Of Thoughts", a two-minute instrumental piece dominated by orchestrations, now their true trademark, and heavy guitars. A piece with a definite atmosphere suitable for warming up the listener. Things get serious with "Beneath" which presents a truly softer and lighter atmosphere compared to the band's standards. The piece is played on the duet between Floor's voice, here truly pop (not a defect, on the contrary) and the instrumental part. A sweet and nostalgic guitar arpeggio paves the way for "My Choice", from which a single is extracted and a video is also filmed. It is a piece with a melancholic aftertaste, with its oriental arabesques and its decadent choirs. But it is a melancholy that never spills over into something sadder, also leaving glimpses of hope. "Glorifying Means" is the most beautiful track of the Mini CD, presenting an impressive drama. The first part seems like a classic piece of the band, even featuring the appearance of Sander's growl. The second part, however, becomes more experimental, also thanks to perfectly fitting piano inserts. I hope "The Evil That Men Do" needs no introduction. The song is excellently reinterpreted, with the main theme here taken up by the strings. The mini CD closes with another cover, which does not belong to the metal world, namely "One Day I'll Fly Away" by Andy Crawfort, a very sunny track that at times is galloping, at times dreamy and subdued.

Note that the limited edition of "Exordium" includes a Bonus DVD containing many treats for fans, such as the video of "My Choice".

Overall, it is a highly recommended CD for fans of the Dutch band, while for those unfamiliar with the band, my advice is to direct towards the actual albums of the band: You will not be disappointed.