Customer Reviews

Last Epic

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Last Epic is the third CD from A.C.T, a Swedish progressive metal band, although this album continues moving the group closer to a symphonic sound. This particular item is the Avalon release of the CD, which took place on January 27, 2003 in Japan. Unlike their first two releases, there are no extra tracks on the Japanese release of this CD. However, like their first two albums it is an enjoyable album to listen to, and once again the music is very well done and the lyrics and vocals are the weaker parts of the album.

Out of the 14 tracks, the ones that I enjoy the most include "Wailings From A Building", "Mr. Landlord - Apartment 121 ", "Dance Of Mr. Gumble", "Manipulator - Barbeque", "The Cause", "The Effect", and "Summary". Unlike their previous CDs, this one doesn't have `The Long One' (i.e. a longer piece broken into smaller ones), but that is because the entire album is a longer piece with different sections. I don't think the peaks of this album are as high as Today's Report, but it maintains are more consistent level than that album. I find that each of their albums improves with each listening.

The band includes Jerry Sahlin (Keyboards, Vocals, Vocoder), Tomas Lejon (Drums), Ola Andersson (Guitars, Vocals), Peter Asp (Bass Guitar, Percussion, Backing Vocals), and Herman Saming (Lead Vocals). In addition, they have "The Acting Orchestra" which includes Stefan Pöntinen (Violin 1), Kajse-Lotta Soleke (Violin 2), Malin Wikblad (Viola), and Per Tidstrand (Cello). Tomas Erlandsson, their original percussionist, is also credited with Percussion but is not listed as part of the group, and Sara Svensson does the Lead Vocals on "The Effect".

If you're PROG or AOR Hard Rock fans, this is one brilliant PROG AOR disc to be added into your collection. The sound are very refreshing.. their brand of mixing Prog with AOR is excellent. I have never heard such an offering to the music world....Check it out man!! Tons of melody, guitar solos, odd time signature, memorable and cathcy melody line. It will grow in you if you continues to listen to it.... I can honest say that these guys are technically sound as well cause most of their songs has complicated musical parts that sums up their brand new PROG AOR sound....

There is a uk site that was created by a UK fan.. It has tons of photos, news, information about ACT. A magnificient Swedish Band.

This album is an absolute masterpiece! The songwriting, production, musicianship, and execution are all nothing short of brilliant. ACT balances on a fine line between very accessable progressive rock, and AOR...and they pull it off flawlessly. At times, you can hear influences of Queen,Styx,Kansas,Saga, and Yes. However, at no time is it in the least bit contrived or rehashed and recycled in any way. This is an album that takes several listens to fully appreciate, and once you do....it is impossible to forget. Here's hoping there are many more ACT albums to come!

Last Epic is required listening for any musician. This is serious prog rock. ACT has their own unique style and flavors it with familiar sounds that, at times, are reminiscent of classic artists like ELO, Queen and Supertramp. Last Epic is a concept album that commands attention from the opening strings. There are powerful guitar riffs, hypnotizing keybords, up-tempo drum beats and unique vocals that imediately capture the listener. Once they have your interest...ACT takes you on an unexpected journey. Each song can stand alone... but as a package....... ACT's Last Epic IS Prog Rock 101!!!