I don’t know how it comes to be; maybe it’s the climate or whatever, but there’s something going on with Sweden. There have been incredibly good bands from there recently. It seems like they’ve discovered the progressive genre again. 

Pain of Salvation is just one of those bands. Starting with their debut album, ‘Entropia’ (1996), it was obvious that this prog metal band had more to offer than just your everyday prog metal band. The last two albums especially, “The Perfect Element Part I (2000) and “Remedy Lane” (2002) were right out masterpieces and milestones in the rich history of this genre. To be pronounced as ‘probably the most progressive band in years’ is not a statement that just came out of nowhere, but it’s proven with every show the band performs. This was how they played two years ago as the opening act for Dream Theater (on February 5, 2002 in Brielpoort in Deinze). The Dream Theater main act was a busy performance of egocentric, over-the–top and big know it all stuff, while the Pain of Salvation segment was decorated with modest but renovated virtuosity.  Many a spectator watched in amazement at how POS made use of their allotted time in such an inventive way. The result was that, after a few months, the band surprised everyone by becoming the headliner for a sold out show. It’s not so astonishing that singer, composer and guitarist, Daniel Gildenlow, is often invited to guest star in other mega bands, such as Transatlantic and The Flower Kings.

This new album also hits the bullseye. ‘12:5’ is an acoustic live album that’s divided into 3 parts (Book I: Genesis, Book II: Genesister and Book III: Genesinister) with mellower songs that have been taken from previous albums and then repackaged. The songs, mainly played on piano and acoustic guitar, give a whole new perspective on the POS to which we’ve grown accustomed. The singing quality, the musical ideas and the instrumental control of the band members are even more prominent on this CD. Book I: Genesis: Brickwork part I (I-V) contains, among others, the following completely reworked songs: “Leaving Entropia” from ‘Entropia’, “This Heart of Mine” (I Pledge)” from ‘Remedy Lane’ and “Songs for the Innocent” from ‘The Perfect Element Part I’.  Book III: Genesinister: Brickwork part 2 (VI-X) contains “Idioglossia” and “Ashes” (fabulous stuff) from ‘The Perfect Element Part I’ and “Second Love” from ‘Remedy Lane’.  Watch out because none of the titles are mentioned on the album. It’s a test for your POS knowledge.

This live album satisfies your highest expectations. You’ll just have to wait and see what the next studio album delivers. As for me, I think they should bring out this CD on to DVD.  In any case, this CD is a must have and it’s a useful way to bridge the gap between now and their next album.