Band:	Vanden Plas
Album:	Far Off Grace
Style:	Power metal, Progressive metal
Release date:	1999

01. I Can See
02. Far Off Grace
03. Into The Sun
04. Where Is The Man
05. Iodic Rain
06. I Don't Miss You
07. Inside Of Your Head
08. Fields Of Hope
09. I'm In You
10. Kiss Of Death [Dokken cover] [European bonus]
11. Shape Of My Heart [Sting cover] [2004 reissue bonus]

Some people will tell you one day that you don't have to buy a CD for its artwork. For once, don't listen to them! I have bought 'Far Off Grace' for its good-looking presentation without knowing anything about the band and it's one of my favorite bands since the first time I've listen to this album. Seriously, it was a chance that I bought 'Far Off Grace' because it has made me discover the true face of music. This unique mix between Dream Theater's progressive style and heavy metal riffs you can't forget, that's what is the music played by Vanden Plas!

Reading the documentation of the album, I realize that Vanden Plas were German and it was surprising for me, as well-known German bands are usually specialized in power or true metal. But Vanden Plas style, which can be called heavy prog metal, is out of the standards. Just listen once to 'Into The Sun' and you will understand. Beginning with a powerful song 'I Can See', this album is full of pure musical jewels. The eponym song 'Far Off Grace' is incredibly beautiful but 'Where Is The Man' is surely one of my favorite song on this album. If you like more heavy style, go to track seven! 'Inside Of Your Head' has a title that is absolutely true. Finally, the strange lyrics of 'I Don't Miss You' and 'I'm In You' would let you weird minded.

See, 'Far Off Grace' is not only a very good album, it has its own atmosphere that includes different kinds of songs from pure heavy to progressive, with beautiful ballads. Unique.