Them Czech Republic dudes are not by far new kids on the block… You might have read somewhere that they formed in 2008, however these guys started in 1999. As I found out, they kicked off under the name of Calypso, in 2001 they switched to Navar, which they kept till 2008; then the band split up and Sebastien were created at sight.
Now… Next doors, in Slovakia, a famous musician answering the name Roland Grapow lives and works, making music. It’s obvious that his acquaintance with the quintet has changed things for the band one and for all. Roland is the producer of the album himself, plus he’s played guitar and sang on some of the songs. On the other hand, the fact that Roland is a huge personality in Metal is the reason so many exceptional musicians participate on the album as guests. Okay, taking a deep breath… Amanda Somerville (Avantasia, Aina, Kiske/Somerville), Apollo Papathanasio (Firewind, Spiritual Beggars), Doogie White (Cornerstone, ex-Rainbow, ex-Yngwie Malmsteen), Fabio Lione (Rhapsody Of Fire, Vision Divine), Mike DiMeo (The Lizards, ex-Riot, ex-Masterplan), Tore Moren (Jorn)… I stand amazed!
You may be wondering whether these Sebastien guys are that good, to get Grapow working with them and all those peeps “upstairs” to partake. Yes, they are! They are damn good! This is one cool band playing melodic Metal, featuring keys and speed, double bass drumming and galloping, whilst verses and choruses are intensely rhythmic and hymnical at the same time. Their songs are basically four minutes long and you’ll be amazed by the voice and those spectacular backing vox. I have absolutely no idea what the epilogue in Czech is all about over “Fields of Chlum”, yet it’s a killer song, same as “Dorian”, “Lake of dreams” and the rest of the bunch, creating a baroque climate, plenty and sweet at the same time. Beautiful songs!
