Well, shit, it happened again.

Simo Autio informed us that he’s quitting music and with it, Helion. Unfortunately the last resort to find the spark, joining Helion, wasn’t enough to turn his mind around: “I should have quit altogether a year ago. During the past couple of years… I haven’t had the motivation to practice, to play.” Realities of everyday life and long distances didn’t help either.

It seems as if the latest album should have been named Bad Luck rather than Bad Dreams, albeit both are quite adequate to describe the latest happenings. On the other hand, no one should act surprised anymore as some might have expected this tragicomedy happen one day or another. This time it just happened sooner than any of us could have expected.

But, we did achieve something good with Simo and Bad Dreams and Broken Shadows, as the album sounds like what Helion should have sounded years ago. That’s something all of us can be proud of. We’re glad that Autio was able to lend his talents to us and help the band evolve. There’s no drama involved with this and everyone’s equally bummed out by it. Thus, we wish him all the best. No regrets, no hard feelings. Thank you, brother!

As for future, it remains to be seen. As it appears, we’re back to square one, but fear not as The Phoenix shall rise!

The band will kick off the next month by performing at AUGUST ROCK in Lammi on the 2nd day of the month (2.8.2008.)  The month will end in another gig on the 30th (30.8.2008), this time at the ARX-House in Hämeenlinna. From what we gather, both shows are attendable by all ages so bring your families with you.

Rock on.

Heavy Metal mecca, LivingForMetal.com, has just posted a review of Bad Dreams and Broken Shadows, living through the nightmares and stabbing the album with a score of 8 out of 10. Be sure to read through the entire review.

Metal-Rules.com has just posted a review of BAD DREAMS and BROKEN SHADOWS, throwing it a score of 4 out of 5. Go check it out.

Teeth of the Divine dot com, formerly known as DigitalMetal, have just published a review of Bad Dreams | Broken Shadows: “Two years and a lineup change later, I could almost be listening to a different band. The good news is, it’s a better band.” Be sure to head out and read the rest of it.

As a side note, you can also purchase the new album, check out the merch-section for more info.