Spheric Universe Experience are hailing from France and this is their second delivery. They started as a trio in 1999 bearing the name Gates of Delirium with Vince Benaim on the guitar, John Drai on the bass and Sam behind the drum-kit. After doing a few local gigs, Alex and Fred joined the band in 2001 on the vocals and keyboards respectively. Under this line-up, but having changed their name to Amnesya they did some more live shows and a demo cd. Unfortunately in 2002 Alex and Sam parted ways with the band, but the remaining members recorded in 2003 their debut "Mental Torments", helped by Franck Garcia (vocals) and session drummer Volodia Brice. In 2005 they were opening for Scorpions and Uli Jon Roth live shows in France while working at the same time on the cd in question.

"Anima" is an awesome piece of art that moves into technical progressive metal soundscapes, with a great deal of power metal references. 11 tracks 3 of which instrumental, that total 70 minutes of numerous rhythmical changes, breathtaking production and a very personal sound. If I am to make a comparison with one of the many new bands out there, I'd say that the structure of their songs is very much alike Andromeda's ones while generally their style is akin to Circus Maximus. Enormous and astonishing riffage, faultless rhythm section and ass-kicking expressive vocals devoid of extravagant squeals and screams. A top-notch offering that has nothing to be jealous of the other, already acknowledged, bands and will surely gratify all the qualitative heavy metal aficionados. Non-stop flow song-wise, that doesn't leave room for thinking just enjoying. Extensive use of the double bass drum, several rhythmical cuts with the keyboards holding a key role on many occasions. Succession of guitar and keyboard solos and use of the French language on the start of "The Key".

Well, to save us time and space just go buy your copy and give value to your money. And by the way, do the same with their debut "Mental Torments".