Threshold originally formed in Surrey, England during the winter of 1988. The band spent four years writing and performing as a five-piece band before signing their first record deal in 1992. The original Threshold line-up consisted of long-time members Karl Groom (guitar), Nick Midson (guitar), and Jon Jeary (vocals), as well as Tony Grinham (drums) and Ian Bennett (bass). After various changes, Damian Wilson eventually joined as vocalist with Jeary assuming the role of bassist.
In the summer of 1992 Threshold signed to the independent UK record label GEP Records. Richard West was brought in to add keyboards to the album after touring with Karl in the progressive rock band Shadowland. The debut album 'Wounded Land' was released in 1993.

WOUNDED LAND (1993, 2001) INSIDE OUT/SPV

Threshold debut is a fine piece of progressive metal, indeed. The guys from England didn't exactly make it easy on themselves, starting out with such a complex form of music in the days when the big thing was grunge. Dream Theater really paved the way for bands in this genre. Still I feel that Threshold make music their own way. I think a band like Symphony X have learned a trick or 2 from this band. The reissue I own is really nice. It comes complete with a bonus track, a stellar booklet with all the lyrics, and comments to each song. And if that's not enough, the enhanced section on the CD also includes screensavers, demo-tracks and a hidden bonus track. All this makes for hours of good entertainment.

Killer tracks: Paradox, Surface To Air, Keep It With Me

PSYCHEDELICATESSEN (1994, 2001) INSIDE OUT/SPV

Threshold continue to deliver their brand of progressive metal to the masses. Once again they deliver quite a complex album. I had to listen to it over and over again, just to get in to the whole feel of it. But once I got there, I enjoyed it real well. 'Psychedelicatessen' is production-wise better than it's predecessor. And that gives the album a heavier sound. New vocalist, Glynn Morgan, although not so different sounding than Damien Wilson, manages to add more depth to the songs. I can't imagine any fan of progressive metal not finding something to love on this album.

Killer tracks: Sunseeker 

EXTINCT INSTINCT (1997) GIANT ELECTRIC PEA/SPV

'Extinct Instinct' is sort of an odd release for me. The band-logo is changed, so at first I didn't even think that this could be the same band that delivered 'Wounded Land' and 'Psychedelicatessen'. But a quick look at the liner-notes tells me differently. Out goes new vocalist Wilson, and in comes the original singer, Morgan. Musically the band have also evolved a bit during the 3 years since the last album. Nothing drastically though, but they sound a bit more easy to the ear, so to speak. The songs stick faster to my mind. Threshold are still not a radio friendly band, although most of the tracks are not as heavy as was the case on the predecessor. But it is nice to be able to at least hum along on a song or too :-)

Killer tracks: Exposed, Forever, Virtual Isolation, Clear