Adagio are quite an enigma. Having a very original sound and quite a reputation after just one album, 'Sanctus Ignis' the band are rightly considered one of the most exciting acts on the modern progressive metal scene. Led by guitarist supremo Stephan Forte and ably backed by vocalist David Readman (Pink Cream 69), Franck Hermanny (bass), drummer Dirk Bruinenberg (Elegy) and new keyboardist Kevin Codfert who at 22 years old is just insanely good!

Those of you that have 'Sanctus Ignis' will have some idea of what to expect on 'Underworld'. But whereas the debut was quite immediate in a lot of places, this one takes more time. The complexity on offer and the sheer depth to the material is breath taking to say the least. Not only do with have the virtuoso musicianship on offer from the band but a dark haunting quality courtesy of choirs from The Vocal Ensemble Of Lyon. With no track under 5 minutes in length means that there is nothing here that will give you a quick fix but the overall brooding darkness of the whole package is mesmerising.

Throughout we have odd time signatures, complex arrangements, rich orchestration and a stunning vocal performance from David Readman who can growl, soar or mesmerise within a verse. Forte is just awesome throughout, showcasing that he really is one of the hottest talents to have emerged in the last 3 years or so. Stephan Forte provides us with dark 7 string riffage which collides with lead work that is equal parts Romeo, Petrucci, Malmsteen and Vai....yet with very original melodies and a superb sweep picking technique. Often parts of are doubled by the keyboards with sounds killer.

The production of the whole album is superb, possessing a slightly different mix than Sanctus Ignis which sees the symphonic parts take more room space, yet it still retains the power of its predecessor.

Opener Next Profoundis is the most accessible track on the album thanks to a soaring chorus, yet there is enough instrumentation here to satisfy even the most demanding musical technician. Keyboardist Kevin Codfert gets a great showcase early on here and he is every bit as good as his predecessor Richard Andersson (Majestic, Time Requiem). Introitus/Solvet Saeclum In Favilla is nothing short of breathtaking bettering anything on the last couple of Symphony X releases. Chosen is home to a great verse and some sublime drumming, particularly in the kick drum department. The chorus is rich which sees a restraint vocal clash with the emphatic backing. The keyboards soar before counter rhythm's combine to stunning effect. From My Sleep...To Someone Elses is harrowing with a dark gothic introduction, here the orchestration really stands out, before a chunky riff paves the way for an almost death metal edge at times before calming down for a great verse. The chorus is one of the strongest on offer with the Lyon Choir helping to add depth to an already huge sound.

The title track Underworld is an epic in every sense of the word. Clocking in at over 13 minutes means a lot of musical changes, this track is film score like in its production and scope. Everything that Adagio is all about is here. The classical influence is throughout and the performances from all band members can only be described as a master class.Promises sees the vibe lighten considerably for this ballad-esque track. Readman's vocal really breathe here working well over acoustic guitar and orchestration. The most straightforward track on the album, yet has class written all over it ...extra points go to the fretless bass work from Franck Hermmany.

The Mirror Stage is another very strong pounding track with superb instrumentation, quirky riffs and probably the closest in style to Sanctus Ignis. As good as anything on the debut. Niflheim sees the album out in grand fashion with building crescendos and a sense of impending victory. The only instrumental on the album allows all band members to get a thorough working out and the supreme talent in this band is apparent for all to see.

Overall Underworld is a rich sonic tapestry that has so much going on that I suspect 100 listens later will reveal new depths. Musically it cannot be faulted, these guys are virtuoso's in every sense. Adagio have a very individual sound that whilst may remind you at times of other prog metal giants, still screams original. Underworld is a contender for album of the year and it deserves to push the band into the big league stakes. Everything else is big time - production, musicianship and packaging. The band even have one of the classiest websites around. Underworld is generally faultless but for those that like immediate rewards you may feel a little on the outside. Basically Underworld is a must buy.