Unpredictable. That is one word that clings to
Wastefall. Fans of technical progressive metal should take notice of this one.
Wastefall come from Greece and they display some serious talent on this, their third release. Their first two releases are well worth your time as well. All you really need to know is that the compositions the band makes are inspired. Complex, yet melodic, aggressive, yet emotional.
Pain of Salvation seems to be an inspiration, especially for lead singer Domenik Papaemmanouil. It is rather scary how closely he resembles Daniel Gildenlöw in both phrasings and tone at some passages. This also the only unoriginal element I can put my finger on on this release. Sticking to the PoS comparison the music of
Wastefall is more agressive and more technical. The layers in the music are so detailed that you won't find many moments to relax those braincells while listening. The short breathers come in the form of
Strife for Definition &
Minutes to abandon.
Strife For Definition evolves from a solemn, quiet piece into a melodic beast and back again.
Minutes to abandon is a highly emotional acoustic piece that lives and breathes on Domenik's impressive voice.
The rest of the album surges in and out of huge moods and enticing melodies. One example is the flamboyant
Provoke the Divine. Upon first listen when the main melody played I at once got reflections of
Pain of Salvation's BE in my mind. The atmosphere is absolutely huge and sweeping. A brilliant melody that is made bigger by Domenik's engaging vocal style. Another higlight is the powerful
Another Empty Haven where the chorus has a great impact. Domenik's voice holds great emotion and lets it all out with a convicing attitude.
Dance of Descent has a strong groove that makes up the base for the great melody to evolve.
In the corner of total complexity we have songs like
The Muzzle affection and
E.Y.E. which I find lacking in one area, focus. The songs feel like they are assembled from parts that are greater than their combined effect. Above average songs, but not my favorites.
If you like
Pain of Salvation this is a no-brainer. If you don't like
Pain of Salvation, especially Daniel Gildenlöw's voice, then you should probably listen before buying. In the end I believe most fans of Progressive Metal will find a lot to enjoy here. This band is too good to miss out on.
Written by
Steen Thursday, September 7, 2006
Show all reviews by SteenRatingsSteen: 7.5/10Members: No members have rated this album yet.
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