The Franklin-Neumann Project - Dreams Of Infinity (2001)Fossil Records

The debut album of aforementioned American project was released in 1999 and titled "Machinery of the Gods", and its successor reached us 3 years later. Two main characters are pharmaceutical research chemists (no joking!) included in the project's name: Gary W Franklin and Bill Neumann who played guitars, keys and were responsible for vocals and orchestrations. They were aided by a lead guitarist - Jim Reindel.

The style represented by Americans is progressive rock/metal with melodic guitar licks and classical references in places, especially in the introduction "Reckless Abandon" and "Olympiacademy (Minuet & Waltz)". Most tracks are performed at mid-tempos, however there are also some really dynamic instrumental hard rockers. The distinguishing elements of the stuff are nice-to-ears guitar solos and amazing keyboard background that produces most unusual atmosphere. Other characteristics are massive sound, powerful, rhythmical and driving parts. Even though Americans are poorly known among progressive music fans, I assure you their music is worth a listen. Very absorbing!