The web site for Mechanical Poet calls this Russian trio a "progressive gothic-metal band," but the six-song EP Handmade Essence sounds more like a combination of symphonic progressive metal and Eighties-influenced hard rock. In fact, there is hardly anything "gothic" here at all. But I'm not complaining. Quirky melodies and lyrics intertwine with dramatic orchestral arrangements, aggressive riffs and enthusiastic vocals to make this project required listening for labels in search of new bands — and prog fans in search of a pleasant surprise.
Mechanical Poet is reportedly working on its debut full-length CD, a concept album that, based on such Handmade Essence tracks as "Hermetical Orchard," "Clue of a Scarecrow" and the instrumental "Waltzing Skip-Jack," should be worth tracking down. I'm sufficiently impressed.
Track Listing
1) Handmade Essence (3:47)
2) Frozen Nile (4:44)
3) Hermetical Orchard (5:50)
4) Clue of a Scarecrow (3:58)
5) Clockwork Shrimps (1:25)
6) Waltzing Skip-Jack (2:13)
Total Running Time (21:59)
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