Most probably it was a sublime evening for the band. Everything fit perfectly: nice venue, a diverse audience sharing their enthusiasm for NovAct, a good band in their opening slot, great sound and quite some press. The number of photographers could not be counted on one hand, including colleagues of renowned Headache magazine and Background magazine.

However, first things first: Belgian group 7th Circle opened the night. Though they have been operating since 1994, it was the first introduction for Drummerszone.com. It must be said: the first impression was excellent. 7th Circle provided the crowd with an entertaining gig.

The Flemish prog-rockers possessed charisma. Skinsman Dirk Vandenbulcke joined 7th Circle in June 2004, but sounded as if he has been playing with them for years. The drummer played modestly, surprising all with powerfill every now and then. Disarming and charming front woman Winnie Versmissen attracted most attention with her striking vocals. She has the same warmth in her voice as the Gathering\'s Anneke van Giersbergen.

And then it was time for NovAct. The band reached the semi-finals of the 2003 Aardschok Metal Bash, played the Headway and Jamrock festivals that same year and were featured on ProgPower Europe 2004. In October 2004 NovAct inked a deal with American label Sensory (subsidiary of The Laser\'s Edge, known from ARK, Edenbridge, Gordian Knot, and Spiral Architect, amongst others).

That creates high expectations and NovAct fulfilled them all. A CD-presentation is supposed to be a party and that was definitely the case.

NovAct\'s music sounds closer to rock than metal, though they have plenty of moments when they turn out heavily. The band is not concerned with pounding as hard as possible, but focuses on the communication of emotions and playing with dynamics. Also in a live situation the musicians succeed very well.

They wrap the mastering of their instruments in songs that stand out by catchy melodies rather than virtuoso technique. Particularly Martijn Peters translates his skills behind the kit into wonderful musical concepts.

During the show frontman Eddy Borremans proudly announced that NovAct will join After Forever as their regular support act. The first gig of a row will take place in De Kade in Zaandam, The Netherlands, on April 15, 2005. If NovAct continues developing in this tempo, it won\'t take before they start touring as a headliner and bring their own opening act!