ENTROPY

Hailing from Melbourne, and fronted by a female singer, this band is standing for a specific hybrid of heavy art rock and some prog metal ingredients. Their debut EP 'Shades Of Black' was released in 2016. 'Entropy' marks the full-fledged follow-up, a definite step forward in its entirety. In between they had a two years lasting hiatus, but then Morgan-Leigh Brown (vocals) and Jason Grondman (bass) formed a re-newed five-piece line up which is delivering a fresh and highly recommended effort. Nine tracks with a total length of 56 minutes, distributed by Wild Thing Records in double vinyl, compact disc and digital format. Producers are the acclaimed Prasheen Naran and Forrester Savell, who also have worked for Karnivool, Dead Letter Circus aso. The formidable artwork was contributed by award winner Liz Gridley.

There is a concept behind that, '... dark, lonely and cold in its tone and attitude ...', Brown explains particular aspects of the ambitious context, '... presented like diary entries, the record ebbs and flows through an array of actions, feelings and emotions'. Stylistically seen, of course there are lot of bands underway with a similiar approach. Anyhow, the musicianship is excellent. And not always a matter, the compositions are stunning all the way through, without exception. Quite a sensation. Where Morgan-Leigh Brown's singing voice perfectly fits the overall sound. Either powerful, expressive, or sensitive, warm, introverted. And everything in between. Fantastic! Chunky metal riffs or soaring psychedelic dreams - Brandon Valentine's guitar is serving impressions with a great range too.

The art rock atmosphere is strongly granted by David Van Pelt, responsible for the organ and piano. Exemplarily to note the highly relaxing Recovery. Oriental tinged synths, Chris Cameron's sensitive drumming, my favourite, the wonderful melancholic Clarity has less in common with metal too. Includes an exceptional male/female vocal collaboration due to the presence of Ben Rechter from the band Circles. Alternatively we also have the heart-wrenching folk ballad Resilience. And then the title track comes as another album highlight, seeing the band engines on full power. 4.5 stars on the PA scale. A new contender for my private Album Of The Year contest.