EVERYONE INTO POSITION

The band has close link with the metal genre, but at the same time they can also release very melodic tunes with mostly catchy vocals parts. And most of the times, the sound is severely catching up at some point of the songs. "The Charm Offensive" fully corresponds to these criteria.

They are able to write attractive music for single release. It is the case with "Heaven Alive" which automatically pinpoint some musical similarity with "Porcupine Tree". A middle tempo song with a melancholic mood. Typical, I told you.

What's also typical is that the band can sound VERY heavy. Very metal like during "A Homage To A Shame". I guess that such a song would please any metal lover. If ever you are more on the trip side and expect some music à la "Eloy" (who sits in the same genre), let me warn you seriously. This song is not for you.

I find a bit strange that this band has so few reviews from true "PT" fans. They would be seriously pleased to listen to this "Oceansize" offering. "Meredith" is another of these sweet songs full of interesting guitar sounds, almost ambient style. Relaxing and almost magical.

But in terms of relaxing and spacey, the palm goes to "Music For A Nurse". The one and only of that kind on this album. Fully atmospheric and nicely trip oriented. One of my fave even if it might sound a bit longish. "Mine Host" is also similar and acts as a cooling tune after the mighty "No Tomorrow".

When compared to their debut, I have to say that this album does not hold those super hard/metal songs like "Massive Bereavement" which was on the edge for me. The band remains in a softer approach again for "New Pin". But the problem is that there are too many songs made of the same mould and at the end of the day diversity is lacking.

A song as "No Tomorrow" is more attractive thanks to its dual facet. Ambient and metal with an orgy of wild guitars (remember, there are three guitar players in the band). "Dream Theater" is the reference here. Similar wall of sound. Furiously heavy and wild.

The last two numbers will be longer ones (just as on "Effloresce"). But if you take "You Can't KeepA Bad Man Down", I have the impression that it sounds heavy just for the sake of sounding heavy. There is little make-up here. Just raw sounds.

The closing number is mostly tranquil, but pay attention because all of a sudden, some violent riffs are devastating and so savage. The vocals enter after more than five minutes while music remains of great magnitude. It is a very well polished and achieved track. One of the best of this good album.

Three stars.

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