Unless you are an absolute freak for hyper-technical instrumental progressive metal then you need not to read any further... Canvas Solaris is one of the best known representatives in this tiny niche of progressive metal, and 'The Atomized Dream' is a fine proof of why they belong among the best (in the segment).

If you are familiar with their earlier albums, then you know what to expect, then again you need to expect the unexpected with Canvas Solaris because their compositions are so technical and are filled with so many breaks that it is hard to believe it the first few times you listen to the album. The contrast between hyper-technical metal passages and acoustic and spacey parts is just amazing.

1-2-3 go, stop, go, up, down, sideways, in, out - the music just keep bombarding your senses with new - and weird - sounds in very weird patterns. The landscape painted is painted using the wide brush as well as the microscopic one and the use of so many various styles results in some very colourful, abstract and deep creations, and you need to be on your toes to take it all in.

For the first time they have managed to keep me excited for the duration of an entire album, and I really enjoy listening to this new album, but I do need to be in the right mood to listen to it as well. Because the music does demand a lot of the listener...

In this specific segment of metal they are clearly one of the frontrunners and if you enjoy bands like Spastic Ink, Cynic and Dillinger Escape Plan then you need to get to know Canvas Solaris as well, for everyone else; keep an open mind or stay clear of this one...