Formed in 1997 initially as a tribute to the black metal band Summoning, Enid have become one of those bands that seemlingly wanders a solitary path, doing what they want purely on their own terms. Members have come and gone over the years but for the time being the band is a duo, featuring founder Martin Wiese and guitarist Alboin Goldmund. Their latest album, 2004's Grandwanderer, is a diverse, ambitious effort, mixing clear classical influences, a bit of folk, and a dash of prog to their metal base. There's plenty of light and shade here, with numerous quiet piano-based interludes, and factor in Wiese's dramatic vocals, the listener really gets the impression that this is something special. It really is an album that stands alone, reflecting the desire of its creators to attempt something interesting and different, rather than simply jumping on to the latest metal trend. Even when the experiments aren't perfect (the odd "The Burning Of The Sea", with its 50s-rock style and Axl Rose-ish vocals) at least one can admire the willingness to experiment. As of this writing a new album is in the works, but as with everything else in this band, it won't be finished until the members deem it ready, however long it takes.