Leprous-Coal review

For the second straight day we have a new music review for you!  Today we're going to look at some music decidedly different than what we heard yesterday. 

Inside Out Music recently released the new album from Norwegian prog-rockers Leprous.  Inside Out is who brought us the latest Devin Townsend album, as well as Geoff Tate's latest, so they already had an impressive pedigree.

As the saying goes, this ain't Leprous' first rodeo.  "Coal" sees them improved dramatically over their last effort.  I'm not always a big fan of progressive rock and metal, so when I hear something I like it is notable.  Leprous is not your average, run-of-the-mill prog band.  As a matter of fact, they are described as Avant-Garde more often than pure prog.  While the two subgenres do have a lot in common, Avant-Garde metal uses more experimental sounds and song structures.  Leprous are quite adept at experimentation.  They use unconventional grooves and soundscapes in repetition with standard metallic riffs to create a very interesting sound.

"Coal" came completely out of left field this year, and many metal bloggers are already placing it in year-end lists.  That should say something about how impressive this music is.

Hooky rhythms combine here with somber melodies and grandiose flourishes of atmosphere.  Few bands manage to pull off this feat with such aplomb, which should earn Leprous more credit. 
If I were to compare Leprous to more-established bands, Queensryche and Dream Theater would be at the top of the list. 

In short, get this disc.  It is a very, very good listen.  Check out the lead single, Chronic, below.  As always, thanks and enjoy!

Devin Townsend Project-Epicloud

These days, the word 'epic' is tossed around carelessly in both the blogosphere and in every day conversation.  I find this trend of using 'epic' as slang somewhat annoying.  So, seeing that Devin Townsend decided to title his new release "Epicloud," I cringed. 

Townsend is a very popular musician, particularly in the metal genre.  Myself, I have never been able to understand the collective man crush the public seems to have on him.  After all, a metal musician who decides to name his band after himself doesn't scream "purchase me!"  To that end, I have to admit that I've never given him his proper chance.  Townsend seems to release a new album everytime I sneeze as well, and I actually frown on that due to quality concerns.  Townsend is the former vocalist for the Canadian band Strapping Young Lad, which I didn't really like.

Needless to say, I listened to his newest album anyway.  This album is fantastic.  I will say that again: Fantastic!

The album's opener is somewhat of a yawner, but it is nothing more than a 45-second intro.  After that, Townsend blasts your speakers with an eclectic brand of pop, rock, and metal blend that should leave you breathless after the second track closes.  The album keeps up its intensity throughout. 

It may be difficult to imagine, but in some ways this is a very strange album.  Townsend doesn't seem to care what the public thinks, nor about genre classifications.  He writes and performs the music he wants to write and perform.  Each album he has released has been different, and in turn, has produced a different feel.  While still embracing the metal that most likely defines him as a musician, Townsend introduces catchy pop hooks, interesting hard rock beats, metal drum patterns, swirling orchestral and choral undertones, classic riffing, and more.  This is not to mention he is also a gifted vocalist.

To appreciate this album, you have to set aside any preconcieved notions and unfair judgments.  This album is worth purchasing.  It is available for download at soundcloud, but a fair warning:  Do not do it.  Every song is played in the background while Townsend talks about the track.  The good news is that the entire album is currently streaming here.

I'll also embed one track below.  Take a listen and prepare to be impressed.  As always, thanks for reading!