SHATTERED LINES

Atto IV is a band from Varese who formed in 2003 and whose relationship to RPI is there but minimal. While there is some influence present and likely the guys are fans, it is with some amusement that I read their bio placing themselves alongside PFM and Banco. Nevertheless, this is a very good band who combine elements of several genres and roll it into one crunchy and interesting metal...though even metal doesn't completely describe them. Their own bio cites "fusion, heavy, alternative rock, electronic and noise" as core sounds and their new album is superbly played and well composed. It consists of a highly melodic and technically masterful prog metal on the more commercial/accessible side, certainly it is not extreme metal. Guitar is the lead instrument and it is in your face, next in line are quality English vocals and what I would consider a DT keyboard presence. The rhythm section deserves a mention too as these guys are tight as hell, really fun to listen to them wail, anchoring the monster riffs. There are a few lighter acoustic sections too which serve as nice counterpoint to the heavy barrage of intensity. "Deep Air" is a real winner with some amazing textures-acoustic guitars and piano leading to an upfront bass as it builds in intensity, along with some great electric and acoustic leads. While "Shattered Lines" is well outside of my usual personal taste I have no problem giving this a good rating and recommending it to fans of heavy rock, metal, and heavy fusion/metal jamming.