Sometimes in this line of business even the most hardened old hack like myself can find oneself being pleasantly surprised and Reversing Time is one such occasion. To be honest I’ve never previously encountered the Turkish Prog/Power Metal act Dreamtone nor the Greek singer Iris Mavraki but their combined efforts, going under the name Neverland, have enlivened my listening pleasures since its arrival. They have been working together since 2006 and it comes as no surprise to learn that AFM expressed interest after hearing just two mixed songs. 

Neverland obviously have quite a cool phone book as Hansi Kursch of Blind Guardian fame helps out on To Lose the Sun whilst Evergrey’s Tom Englund turns up on World Beyond These Walls. Mountain of Joy features the talents of Gary Wehrkamp of Shadow Gallery and the Istanbul Philarmonia Orchestra make their presence felt throughout. 

To Lose the Sun, with Kursch’s distinct vocals, is a particularly fine track with a memorable chorus and is apparently about a father who tries to turn back time in order to save his son from dying. Hmm, I bet Leona Lewis never has to over emote about such a subject! In some ways, I suspect that the overtly European operatic style vocals of Oganalp Canatan could possibly put some people off, but it shouldn’t as he adds character to all the tunes which he sings, but the album truly joins the ranks of the special when Iris Mavraki takes over. 

Everlasting Tranquillity is in particular, well ... erm tranquil. This is a truly beautiful song with outstanding orchestration and a lovely guitar solo whilst the title track shows a darker side to the band. Transcending Miracle shows off the orchestra at it's best and it could well be argued that this is one of the best arranged albums that has been heard for some time. 

Hats must also be doffed in the direction of the various people involved in the way in which this record sounds as it is crystal clear and utterly pristine and lends a contemporary sheen that is most welcome. Above all though, Reversing Time is a grower and I suspect that it will reveal more and more over the coming months and perhaps the mark at the top of the page could well be a tad harsh.

Let us know your views on Reversing Time

Track Listing

Shooting Star
To Lose the Sun
Mankind is a Lie
Everlasting Tranquillity
Reversing Time
Black Water
Mountain of Judgement
Mountain of Joy
World Beyond These Walls
Transcending Miracle

Line Up

Iris Mavraki – Vocals
Oganalp Canatan – Vocals
Onur Ozkoc – Lead Guitar
Burak Kahraman – Rhythm Guitar
Can Dedekarginoglu – Bass
Emrecan Sevid - Drums