STYLE: Hard Music RATING OUR PRODUCT CODE: 432-25681 LABEL: Giant Electric Pea GEPCD 1023 FORMAT: CD Album
Reviewed by Alex Figgis
Their fourth studio outing to date, it is a shame that until now Threshold have remained somewhat of an unknown musical entity. Formed in '88 by guitarists Nick Midson and Karl Groom (Strangers On A Train/Mercy Train/Casino). Threshold have seen quite a change in their line up since releasing their debut album in '93 ('Wounded Land'). Now featuring keyboard maestro Richard West (Mercy Train), Jon Jeary (bass), Mark Heaney (drums) and new vocalist Andrew McDermott, Threshold's sound is stunningly well executed, sonically enveloping and drawing the listener within the album's theme, empowering them to acutely experience the depth and breadth of 'Clone's mood and tone. 'Clone' is best described as being a concept album, where mans obssession to literally re-create himself is explored in the wake of current experimentation in the field of genetic manipulation. Via the medium of progressive metal of the highest caliber, Threshold evoke and maintain a haunting and ominous mood throughout the project. A subtle spiritual undertone has been both intelligently and sensitively woven within the album's theme, culminating in the superb power ballad 'Sunrise On Mars', encouraging one and all to embrace Christ's invitation to receive his yoke and burden upon themselves, and experience eternal rest within the arms of man's true Creator. Overall, 'Clone' is a harrowing project that both challenges and inspires the listener to seriously consider the very real physical, moral and spiritual repercussions of cloning in all of its ugly guises.
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