GRAYCEON

Grayceon are one of the newer prog acts that came out in these recent years that stay true to the progressive rock sound without doing anything that has been done before. This characteristic reminds me of the symphonic prog band Deluge Grander in the sense that they bring new ideas to the table without alienating the listeners.

This is perhaps the first time I've seen a line-up like this in a prog metal genre. Here we have a trio of guitar, drums and a cello! It may look strange on paper, but the cello adds so much more to the sound that it wouldn't be Grayceon if it didn't had it and more if we're talking about Jackie Perez Gratz who has been in bands like Amber Asylum, Giant Squid and contributed with bands like Neurosis and others. The instruments blend evenly and beautifully to create their eloquent and elegant style of progressive "metal". None of the members try to show off. They sound like a single unit and that's one of the good qualities the band has. Also, they don't use effects of some sorts and this gives the album an organic and concrete feel.

The songs very alot in mood and tempo, but they always have a certain theatric feel thanks to the cello and the wonderful vocal duet of Jackie and guitarist Max Doile. Although the vocal parts aren't the main focus in their music it certainly adds to the overall feel and mood of the album. Their music in the longer songs (3/4 of the whole album) flow smoothly while going through various themes and tempo changes without sounding jagged or pasted. Also, even in their heavier parts these guys still sound bearable for people who don't normally listen to metal, but at the same time they get their feelings across nicely. From the mournful moments with the soft guitar and cello to the rabid moments with the drummer, Zack, giving all he's got., Grayceon has no problem showing us what they want us to see and feel. All is done with a certain finesse to it that makes it even more enjoyable. The highlight of the album is definitely their 20 minute epic (the only word suited to describe this wonderful composition) "Ride". It's really amazing how a simple trio with no more than one instrument each and no effects of sorts can makes this song so colorful and vivid. It's thrilling, full of life, marvelously composed and expressive.

Trying to write their sound in paper isn't an easy task, but the emotions I get while listening to this can be clearly seen. This is easily one of the best releases of this year. People who aren't normally into progressive metal should really give Grayceon a try and also everyone who's looking for the ones stretching progressive rock farther, Grayceon are one of the bands making it happen. I won't give this album a 5 stars now only because for me to give it the highest rating it needs to stand the test of time, but I won't feel bad giving it a 4.9.

Innovation at its finest.

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