For a year now, people have been talking about Reading Zero - the new upcoming progressive metal band from the US. Their 1997-release 'The Actual' caused all the fuzz and proves Reading Zero's glorious musicianship. Fates Warning and Dream Theater are suitable comparisons, but there is nothing unique with the music, but it's still inspirational. The disc consists of 10 tracks of pure progressive metal. Songs like 'Amongst the Clouds', 'Dimensions', 'Mirage' and 'And Never to Return' are obvious highlights. Added together the tracks reach a total playtime of 52 minutes, acceptable considering the fact there is no feel of shortness or lack of songs. Reading Zero produced the album and wrote all the music, proving once again their skills with a clean production and great songwriting.