For years André Andersen has been the driving force behind stellar Prog-Metal Rockers Royal Hunt, providing such classic albums as Paradox, Clown in The Mirror, and Fear. With Changing Skin, André once again proves he is an amazing musician, songwriter, and composer. Just how much music can pour out of man's soul? It depends on the man, and judging by the quality of the songs, André's musical outpour seems endless. That being said, André does not venture too far from Royal Hunt land.

The Zeppelin-esque album opener and title track "Changing Skin" provides a slight change from the Royal Hunt sound, with an almost Kashmir-ish feel to it which is very cool. And you almost think that this is the way the album's going, but then Andersen throws the beautiful ballad "1000 Miles Away" (MetalGod's Pick) at you and leaves you mesmerized. The more than adequate vocals are handled by Kenny Lubcke who sounds like a cross between former Royal Hunt vocalist D.C. Cooper and current vocalist John West. The orchestration in this album is incredible, with all arrangements handled by Andersen, who also handles keyboards, bass, and guitars. Pretty amazing, isn't it?

Every song in this album is an opus, with the shortest one clocking in at 5:52. Prog fans rejoice! There are a couple of cool rockers like "Never Look Back" and "Wings of Tomorrow" which totally take over the album. Also, you get an awesome cover of WhiteSnake's "Crying In The Rain" which will have you banging your head in no time. If you're a fan of Royal Hunt, Prog-Metal, Neo-classical or just good music, then Changing Skin is definitely for you.

Reviewed by MetalGod

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