California-based progressive metallers THE ELEMENT have finished work on their new album, From Sand Part I.

The album is considered by the band to be its best work to date and the second part to the story (already written) will be released within the next year to year and a half.

From Sand Part I contains eight tracks.

Vocalist/guitarist/composer Rafael Macedo spearheaded the production of the album, which was mixed and mastered by legendary producer Beau Hill (ALICE COOPER, RATT, WINGER).

The worldwide release date for 2011 and info about the label/distro will be announced very soon. The band is taking its time in order to make sure that they've made the right decisions for the well-being of the band.

The album's story will be told through the music. But, listeners can also read the complete story in the booklet provided with the physical copy of the album, as well as the digital booklet for those who download through web-stores like iTunes, Amazon, and all the main digital stores around the world. Listeners can also find hints about the story through other mediums such as Facebook, ReverbNation, MySpace... etc, which will be combined with promotions to value the most loyal fans.

In the meantime, the band is promoting the upcoming release doing workshops, as well as FM and Internet radio interviews.

Rafael Macedo is also doing a series of guitar clinics in Brazil. The focus of the workshops will be: promote the new album, talking about his guitar work, and also talk about all the music instrument companies which he endorses, such as EVH Gear, Jackson, Morley Pedals, InTune Picks, S.I.T Strings, Gator Cases, Liszko Straps...

Rafael Macedo says, "We're completely stoked about the new album. Beau's job with the mix/master is so good that it is scary. I have no doubt this is our best work so far, and we're really anxious to release and start playing live to our fans. My band mates, Mitch Stewart (CIIC), Jeremy Villucci and Henry Moreno played their ass off on this album, I'm really lucky to have them by my side."

Jeremy Villucci (keyboard player/co-songwriter) says, “I make a lot of jokes about these guys and this band. But, truth be told, this album is amazing. I’m so grateful to be a part of a project as inspiring as this. The music is mindblowing and I’m really, really excited for everyone to experience this with us.”

Beau Hill says, "The Element caught my attention with their excellent material, an unusual focus on arrangement details, and progressive melodic hooks... sounds like the recipe for a hit to me."

From Sand Part I tracklisting:

'Please Sit Down...'

'Narrowing Part I'

'Lady In The Seashore'

'She's Made From Sand'

'Shine Shy Shine'

'Hope Departed'

'Promises (At Least One Sunny Day)'

'The Curtains Of My Eyes'

You can hear samples of the work on Facebook.