BOREALIS – Purgatory

Borealis is a young Canadian band that has a small handful of releases to their credit, including their latest, entitled Purgatory.  Borealis plays a high class, if not sophisticated, form of Progressive-Power Metal that is somewhat soft around the edges, especially at the hands of vocalist Matt Marinelli, whose pipes are well-refined and soothing, giving a unique “warmth” to Borealis’ soundscapes.  Purgatory’s first few tracks start out very strong, displaying innovative and catchy melodies, but that tends to give way as the album rolls on to songs that don’t “feel” as inspired.  Still, a solid effort by these Progressive-Power up-and-comers.