Dreaming Awake kicks off with the first of three instrumentals, “Into The Afterlife.” It’s the only one that’s not orchestral, relying on fast guitars and a heavy rhythm section that leads directly into “Eternity,” which follows a stylistic pattern of fast and furious power metal. The title track is up next, and it’s easily the album’s best song. A heavy, mid-paced number with a ridiculously catchy chorus; this is the song that draws the most comparisons to Circus Maximus. If by this time you’re enjoying the album, the rest shouldn’t let you down. Dreaming Awake continues a similar path throughout the rest of the record: uptempo power metal numbers with a progressive edge - “Fall Of Man” and “Maze Of The Past” — and mid-paced anthems - “Then Shadows Fall” and “Remember.” The two orchestral instrumentals are largely forgettable, but they’re short and really don’t interrupt the flow of the album.

Dreaming Awake may be tough to locate, as it has been out of print for a while now. A new Harmony album is in the works, but in the meantime check out the new Ulterium Records band Darkwater and their debut album Calling The Earth To Witness. Four of the five members of Harmony make up the same number in Darkwater, all playing the same role in each band; the only member not making the jump is the bass player. Darkwater is not the new Harmony, but considered a separate band. Darkwater is not too far off in terms of style; they’re simply more progressive and heavier. Both come highly recommended.

written by Ken Wood

Playing time: 53:37