Let me say that the musicianship displayed is stellar. Sweeping riffs and dazzling leads help to solidify the top notch guitar work this band has. Each song really captures the sci-fi concept that Catalyst portrays. One of the first aspects that grabbed me was how well this album gelled together. With a concept album, many times the pacing can seem forced, almost puzzle-pieced together; not here. Prototype tells a very intricate story that uses all of themselves to convey their seamless message track to track. The three instrumentals, “Inceptum,” “Illuminatum,” and “Impetus” all act as page dividers, as they are breaking points to begin and separate distinct parts of the story being told. Of them, “Illuminatum” is my personal favorite as I find it really gives the picture of the heart and soul of not only the band, but the whole of Catalyst in its scope and precision.
Transcend brings a whole new musical world to the table in the epic masterpiece: The Mind. Ranging from the heaviest riffs and odd-time extended instrumental sections to soft male-female vocal duets and Greek Bouzouki parts, we are taken on an inspiring journey by these young virtuosos. Although Transcend echoes with originality, their influences remain clear and often intentionally obvious to any fans of Progressive Metal. Their music screams; Dream Theater, Symphony X, Pain of Salvation, Devin Townsend and Opeth – but also takes us to dreamier worlds like those of Pink Floyd, King Crimson and at times even Elton John and The Tea Party.
Renaissance of Fools – Fear, Hope & Frustration 2012
Sep 8, 2012 16:06
All Exclusive Progressive Rock
NOW!
Swedish progressive metallers Renaissance Of Fools are about to release their debut album entitled Faith, Hope & Frustration. The CD title is appropriate, as the listener will undoubtedly experience all three of those feelings while playing it.
Founded by guitarist/composer Daniel Magdic (Pain of Salvation) and drummer Magnus Karlsson (ex-Leech & Machina – not to be confused with Primal Fear’s guitarist of the same name) and later bolstered by bassist BjörnTauman and guitarist/vocalist Kjell Bergendahl; Renaissance Of Fools is looking to enter the crowded progressive metal scene. They hope to stand out by mixing in some heavier elements along with some lighter meditative aspects, thus broadening the range of the genre.
The songwriting is solid throughout the release, and the musicianship is top-notch, but the overall musical tone is dark, heavy and a bit depressing. Kjell Sjostrom is a solid singer, but at times he seems to follow the overall tone of the album and comes across as somewhat disinterested or bored. He does have many fine moments, perhaps the strongest being the intense and varied “Misguided Mind”. Sjostrom’s guitar works well with the vast talents of primary guitarist Daniel Magdic, who loves laying down thick and heavy riffs and well as brilliant solos. The bottom end and backbone of Renaissance Of Fools is provided by standout bassist Bjorn Tauman and fine drummer Magnus Karlsson. These two make a fine team and really hold the album together whether playing at full steam or tiptoeing through a more ballad-like piece.
Autumn Whispers – Cry Of Dereliction Vol. I (2012)
Sep 7, 2012 11:24
Progressive Rock Rock
Autumn Whispers is a lyrical rock band which with its debut album "Cry of Dereliction Vol I" sets the standards for the album project of 7 volumes, "Cry of Dereliction". The music carries elements from the 70's progressive rock scene, acoustic and classical music, and has a core of tuneful melodies and skilled musicians. The lyrics are poetic and strongly associated with the musical arrangements, and the band's basic idea and vision. The album series will present selected poems from the world's most recognized poets, as well as their own poems. "Cry of Dereliction Vol I" brings together all these elements into a welcoming totality.
