When Markus sent me that CD, I got totally excited. His work in Sieges Even (both the musical and the lyrical ones) and the samples from the upcoming Looking Glass Self EP, made me believe that, despite the lack of lyrics, this album would give me the same, seemingly bitter but so pleasant at its whole depth, feeling. Unfortunately, this CD did not touch me as much as I expected, and I don't think it has to do with its musical style. You see, it's only Markus playing his acoustic guitar in a improvisational way, which has nothing to do with metal or rock - but this should not be, and actually it is not, any problem. At some times, some exceptional melodies derive from some songs, and that's when you realise that these melodies are only few. Every song has a deep, silent but intent feeling - but this is not translated into parts that leave you astonished. Imagine something like the improvisational works of Al DiMeola or John McLaughlin, in a lightless way, but with few things staying in mind, even after many listens. Of course, the musicianship is more than excellent, and even though I am not a guitarist, it's not hard to understand that this work will be really useful for guitar players (and especially since acoustic guitar is way more difficult that the electric one). I won't rate it, because I don't think I can be as objective as needed. It's not what I'm used to listen to, and beyond that, it's a really personal work which deserves our respect. Give it a try if you want, you might find more than I did.

Yiannis Vidiadakis

ps. For more info on Markus' works, visit http://www.looking-glass-self.com, and www.calamusrecords.de.