THE PERFECT ELEMENT - PART 1

Sure, it took me a lot to finally "get" the direction of the music and it's hard still to dive in to this extremely complex album. But it suers eventually shines, especially if you are willing to give dedicated attention to the album. Here are my initial impressions to this interesting purpose.

First, you might be prepared to get an avalanche of different styles and a lot of different tendencies in one sitting. Sure, it will take you a while to digest it, but once you pass the first couple of spins the sounds start to fall all in the right places and the music shines with glimpses of excellency and greatness. The musicians are top of class, no matter it's an "in your face" metal phrase, a dramatic melodic line, a mellow tune or whatever. My first impression is that they tend to go into the darker way than the typical Dream Theater-like bands that infest the Prog Metal sub genre. Guitars and keyboards really make the deal to keep it interesting and powerful at the same time, though all the instruments share emotion and technique capabilities that really make a wonderful experience.

Second, the vocals are mainly the most let down of the album. Sure the guy can sing, sure he can make a lot of different interpretations, like a "rapping" stuff followed for a more dramatic high pitched melodies. But I think it's hard to get to the music because of his voice. Eventually, when you let the music surrounded you, then you start appreciating the vocal arguments that fit great with the music.

If you can pass and hang on for the third spin of the album, I'm sure you will find something interesting and attractive to follow. I'm more than interested in continue the journey of knowing this great musicians and their music.

It's not for all the tastes, but if you are a Prog Metal fan, you will sure find something interesting for you. If you are a little more progressive, there's still many things to like. I like it but I don't feel it can reach an "essential" status. I feel like a strong 3.5, but I feel that sometimes the lose me a bit, here and there' so I will keep it in 3, because is a great album. Maybe I'll change my rate after I get the other albums. For now, Pain of Salvation is a good, but non-essential band for my tastes.

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