One of my favorite bands ever is Vanden Plas. Since their strong debut album in 1995 “Colour Temple” they made 4 albums. The most impressive album for me was “The God Thing” (1997). The songs on this record are of a very high progressive metal level, very heavy, impressive structure, superb solos. I still listen this record frequently nowadays. “Far off Grace” is also a quite good album but the sound is too clean, I miss the power of Vanden Plas on this record. With “Beyond Daylight” (2002) Vanden Plas turn back to their roots, their debut album.

Now 4 years later the band releases its 5th album "Christ 0" and it’s overwhelming. Vanden Plas is showing their real strength, songs with great structure and melodies, superb heavy and emotional instrumental parts. The album reaches nearly the level of “The God Thing”. As you may guess, for me this album is one of the best of this year.
The first edition comes in a special packaging and will feature the Andrew Lloyd Webber song "Gethsemane" from the musical "Jesus Christ Superstar" as a bonus track.

The concept of the album is based upon Alexandre Dumas` novel "The Count of Monte Cristo". The tale is about Dantes, a sailor who is falsely accused of treason by his best friend Fernand, who wants Dantes` girlfriend Mercedes for himself.

Dantes is imprisoned on the island prison of Chateau D`If for 13 years, where he plots revenge against those who betrayed him. With the help of another innocent prisoner (Richard Harris), he escapes the island and proceeds to transform himself into the wealthy Count of Monte Cristo as part of his plan to exect revenge.

The first song has a bombastic intro followed by heavy riffs, including a great guitar solo, so it is a real Vanden Plas song. “Postcard to God” also has heavy riffs, symphonic keyboards, and a beautiful keyboard solo (Günter Werno) followed by a heavy guitar solo (Mr. Stephan Lill). The vocals are great, Andy is doing a great job. Andreas Lill (drums) and Torsten Reichert (bass) form also a very solid rhythm base. “Wish you were here” is a song which could be described as Abydoss meets Vanden Plas. “Fireroses Dance” and “January Sun” are superb symphonic metal songs; absolutely great.
The cover "Gethsemane" is nicely done, but it can’t compete with the original. Keep off those songs!

"Christ 0" is a must for all progressive metal fans, buy it and enjoy!