Sphere of Souls debut release “From the Ashes…” is an atmospheric venture into a new world of mystical sounds. The pounding heartbeat of the bass by Kees Harrison is accentuated as it mixes with the heavily voice of André Vuurboom. You really have to check into this band! If you’re looking for a master vocalist, you will get that in André. His vocals are reminiscent of the great Lance King.

The opening track “From the Ashes...” is trance-like bordering on progressive and power metal. I still can’t get over the vocal power of André that is astounding! “Sweet Sorrow” is like a suspense movie with the magical hidden gem of the keyboards by Joost Van den Broek, which are Rick Wakeman-like. Throughout most of the tracks, the lead guitar by Anand Mahangoe is blended into the songs; I would like to hear a few more solos.

Anand does let loose on “No Salvation.” A couple of other tracks should have been brought forth to show his style. “Lies Inc.” goes in a whole different direction adding a dimension of brutal hardcore aggressive metal with harsh and clean vocals. Anand’s guitar work takes on a mind of its own, with piercing riffs ending with a short keyboard melody. Usually the last track leaves you wanting for more but “Epilogue” is a piano/vocals ballad that should have been left off the release. It’s a good release with great vocals we should hear more from Sphere of Souls in the future.

Band History:
André Vuurboom: vocals, rhythm and clean guitars (ex-Sun Caged, Imperium (Hol).
Kees Harrison: bass (ex-Epitaph (UK), ex-Necrology (Hol), also in Autumn Equinox)
Joost Van Den Broek: keyboards (also in After Forever and Another Messiah, Ayreon and Star One, ex-Sun Caged)
Anand Mahangoe: lead guitars
Rob Cerrone: rhythm guitars (Imperium (Hol))
Ruud Van Diepen: drums (Autumn Equinox)
Joost Van Den Broek: keyboard (Ayreon, After Forever, Sun Caged, Sphere of Souls)