DWELLING IN THE OUT

Although Dream Theater influences are clear on "Dwelling In The Out," it's just as clear that Digital Ruin is no DT clone. "Dwelling" doesn't show off operatic singing or grand keyboard orchestration; instead, the album is fueled by dark, distorted guitars, bringing some serious Megadeth/Metallica/Pantera-style heaviness into a classic prog-metal atmosphere.

As is expected from progressive rock bands, Digital Ruin's performances are excellent, but songwriting is the album's real strength. Every song is dynamic, moody, and emotionally affecting prog-metal without gratuitous intricacy or excessive instrumental noodling; the engagingly energetic "Adrift" and the bracingly intense, vaguely Queensrychean drama of "Along The Way" are particularly compelling.

For fans of prog's darker, heavier side, "Dwelling" is an excellent statement from a band that deserves our attention.