Seven Steps to the Green Door is not a title of an album.  It is the name of the 7-member band from Germany, headed by Marek Arnold of metal band, Toxic Smile, and Ulf Reinhardt (Mother’s Pride / Prophets of Prunes).  The album is called Step In 2 My World and is a progressive album with Jazz undercurrents and experimental overtones throughout creating an interesting mix of style.

The 11 songs found on this album are a flurry of influences that range from Yes, ELP, and a host of other classic bands.  But you won’t find the unusual blends on this album elsewhere.  On “Paid For Glance,” an ELP-like piano and keyboards open the layered song before metal kicks in, eventually closing with a rockabilly/jazz mix.  Now there’s a song for you.  It should also give you an idea about the experimental nature of the band as they move from song to song.  Unusual?  Maybe.  But it all works out.

“Rising Shore” incorporates a Rap amid melodies and then slips in a clarinet to bring the song to a close.  Step In 2 My World has its share of ballads.  Again, you’ll find a bit of Rap amongst the folds of a melodious tune called “Closer,” a gorgeously constructed song that stands out from this album.

All in all, the musical experiments of Step In 2 My World is a satisfying attempt at something different.  Seven Steps To My Green Door does a good job of it.  Well worth listening to.