Higher: Higher

Higher is a new band hailing from Brazil that has roots dating back to the '90s and the metal band Second Heaven. The members of that band pursued other areas of music such as jazz but have always had a love for all things metal. This brings us to their recently released self-titled debut CD.

Band members include Cezar Girardi (vocals), Gustavo Scaranelo (guitar), Felipe Martins (guitar), Andrés Zúñiga (bass) and Pedro Rezende (drums).

I must confess it has taken some time to get into this album as initially the songs just didn't have the staying power in my brain. I listened but nothing stuck. After the third or fourth spin things started to change and the album revealed more substance than was first heard.

The first two tracks "Lie" and "Illusion" are strong metal tunes with intense riffage and interesting vocals, particularly in the latter. Amidst the chugging riffs are some stellar harmonizing backing vocals that really glues this one together. The lead vocals also stand out as Girardi has a good range and has no problems belting out the high notes. The heavy "Keep Me High" features chopped up guitar riffs and more solid vocals while the staccato riffs and stand out vocal arrangement in "Make It Worth" makes for a solid metal tune.

The best track is the slightly more ambitious "Break The Wall" with its memorable chorus, intense vocal blasts and gentle guitar arpeggios.

The band name and album title are conceptual in nature as the songs demonstrate a common theme of always doing your best and being the best person you can be. Hence, the word higher.

Strong vocals and all around musicianship (especially the guitar work) make Higher recommended for fans of melodic, groove and progressive metal. Follow the link below for more information.

Track Listing:
1. Lie
2. Illusion
3. Keep Me High
4. Climb The Hill
5. Like The Wind
6. Break The Wall
7. Time To Change
8. Make It Worth
9. The Sign

Added: November 19th 2015
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Facebook Page
Hits: 1726
Language: english

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