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IZZ: Crush of Night

Often times, progressive rock bands focus more on virtuosity than songwriting, as well as emulation instead of originality. Fortunately, despite a slight lack of variation, IZZ challenges the stereotypes. Their newest release, Crush of Night, pummels the listener with assured direction, beautiful harmonies, and playing that's simultaneously complex and melodic. In addition, its wonderful sense of thematic cohesion makes the whole (as the saying goes) worth more than the sum of its parts.

The brainchild of brothers Tom and John Galgano, IZZ also consists of percussionists Greg DiMiceli and Brian Coralian, guitarist Paul Bremner, and vocalist Anmarie Byrnes. Crush of Night is the second chapter in a planned trilogy that began with 2009's The Darkened Room. Like its predecessor, the album continues the "exploration of one's journey of self-knowledge, doubt and ultimately the search for meaning." With similarities to Circa, Vangough, Riverside, and Dream Theater, Crush of Night features immaculate production, wonderful melodies, and captivatingly accessible yet technical music. Also, prog rock legend Gary Green (Gentle Giant) guests on a couple tracks, which helps give the album even more flair and IZZ some added respect.

The greatness of Crush of Night lies in how well it combines its elements. From the moment opener "You've Got a Time" begins, it's obvious that the Galgano's voices blend marvelously. Their vocal syntheses and trade-offs are a constant highlight of the record, as is the way they constantly incorporate appealing melodies. Musically, dynamics is a big factor; intricate guitar riffs, percussion, and keyboard passages combine intensely before melting away into pure atmosphere, allowing the songwriting to take center stage. While all the tracks are fantastic, the two thirteen minute pieces, "This Reality" and "The Crush of Night," are clear standouts due to their more elaborate structures.

Crush of Night is a thoroughly absorbing album. While it's not as diverse as it could be, IZZ is definitely a cut about many of its competition in terms of original vision and successful execution. Sure, some influences are apparent and some sounds are familiar, but for the most part, the group declares its own identity thanks to their unique arrangements. Overall, it's definitely worth checking out if you're a fan of the genre, and its sleeper hit quality makes it more special to anyone who's lucky enough to discover it.


Track Listing
1. You've Got A Time (4:09)
2. Words and Miracles (7:18)
3. Solid Ground (6:02)
4. Half the Way (6:07)
5. This Reality (13:32)
6. The Crush of Night (13:18)
7. Almost Over (4:19)

Added: June 25th 2012
Reviewer: Jordan Blum
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 3127
Language: english

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