THE PERFECT ELEMENT - PART 1

First of all, this record has something wrong: it is the first time I really notice one musician being outrageously outclassed by the other ones, but paradoxally taking too much room! Indeed, the monolithic rhythmic guitar does not fit with the rest of the music! Let me explain how I see that: the EXCELLENT and complex drums, the sophisticated fretless bass, the insistent lead vocals, the pleasant keyboards and the heroic guitar solos are often dangerously killed by an irritating grunge guitar sound. Don't get me wrong: the rhythmic would be good if the SOUND was good! That is very sad, because the melodies, compositions, inspiration, originality and feelings involved are VERY present and interesting! Actually, there are 2 guitarists: one who plays Satriani-esque solos, always very clean, well recorded and emotional; another one who provides the rhythmic section, sounding like a bland "Our lady peace", or, in the worst case, a sick "Alice in Chains"...unless both guitarists share themselves the solos and the rhythmic duties.

Sometimes the vocals are modified, inducing a modern marginal mood to the ensemble. Obviously, the best parts are when the rhythmic guitar is absent or more timid. There are often excellent piano parts combined with the varied, emotive and sometimes hysterical voice of the lead singer. The lead & backing vocals are refined and very pleasant to hear.

The first track, "Used", has the best rap parts i've heard so far, nevertheless thanks God, it does not last for a long time! I must admit that ALL the tracks have something excellent, VERY catchy and addictive. You have the perfect example here of a contamination between alternative rock and outstanding progressive rock: fortunately, the omnipresent progressive elements are interesting enough to not give 1 or 2 stars to this album. This record is a perfect one to gradually convert a rebel and depressed teenager, fan of alternative rock bands, to a sentimental and motivated fan of pure progressive rock. My heart tells me to give 4.5 stars to this gem, but i'm going to be more reasonable: -1 star because of the rhythmic guitar sound.