Part 1 -- Part 3 -- Part 4 -- Part 5 -- Part 6 -- Part 7 -- Part 8 -- Part 9
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There's probably a better way to share these than in bunches, but I'd rather not make individual posts for each review. I want maintain this blog as a venue for personal expression as opposed to transforming it into a forum for music reviews.
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There's probably a better way to share these than in bunches, but I'd rather not make individual posts for each review. I want maintain this blog as a venue for personal expression as opposed to transforming it into a forum for music reviews.
Regardless, in case anyone is interested, here's my latest round of reviews (since April 3rd). For classic prog fans, I recommend Rocket Scientists and Láquesis. For fans of blues rock, psychedelia, and quirky hooks, Marblewood or These Curious Thoughts. Backhand is a bit of an enigma -- Latin metal with progressive elements, but a distinct bend toward songwriting.
I've also got albums from five more bands/artists currently on the table: Soup (Norway), Psycrence (Greece), Paving the Labyrinth (South Africa), Yossi Sassi (Israel), and Ghost Town Riot (Seattle).
If you take a listen to any of these, let me know what you think!
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Láquesis is a strong debut release, full of powerful ballads, soft instrumentals, and enough musical technicality to satisfy fans of both classic and contemporary eras of progressive rock.
Supernatural Highways is an invigorating, compelling, and thoroughly enjoyable EP, well-written and well-orchestrated, commemorating Rocket Scientists' 20th anniversary.
With song structures that are loose, fluid, and supremely high-energy, Swiss jamband Marblewood compose long, blues-influenced instrumentals well-suited to the live performance.
These Curious Thoughts write powerful compositions - indie/post-rock at its finest. What is it, and how did it get in there? is unique, strange enough to beg additional listens, and profound enough to demand a few more.
Backhand - Through the Turbulence (Venezuela/Canada)
Through the Turbulence accomplishes exactly what its title suggests: the album is full of frenetic solos and rapid sections, and deals with heavy thematic elements, but also showcases the musicians' appreciation for intense dynamic changes and quality songwriting.