Back in 2014 we reviewed the Young Rust EP from Connecticut's Mile Marker Zero, which was a huge step forward for this exciting progressive metal band on only their second release. Here they are to kick off 2018 with their third album, the full-length The Fifth Row, and surprisingly this talented outfit are still without a label, which, could very well change after the world hears this excellent new album. The current line-up of the band consists of:
Dave Alley - Vocals
John Tuohy - Guitar
Mark Focarile - Keyboards
Jaco Lindito - Bass
Doug Alley - Drums
Back in 2014, we remarked that the band's music was a must hear for any fan of Tool, Fates Warning, and Dream Theater, and that's still the case, perhaps we can additionally throw Porcupine Tree, Spock's Beard, Transatlantic, and Pain of Salvation in there as well. The Fifth Row is a long album packed with plenty of daring arrangements that cross into atmospheric & melodic prog-rock waters as well as complex and heavy passages squarely in the progressive metal vein. "Digital Warrior" is a crankin' piece with some lethal guitar work from Tuohy and Focarile's majestic keyboard textures, while the classy "2001" contains some of Dave Alley's most potent vocals on the album, his Maynard James Keenan inflected vocal style working quite well with these energetic songs. He's full of aggression on the upbeat rocker "Architect", and varies his attack on the highly progressive "Building a Machine", a tune also noteworthy for his brother Doug's intricate drum work and Lindito's groovy bass tones. Other highlights include the symphonic stomp of "Propaganda", the emotional "U.I." (featuring another killer vocal from Alley), and the wild "Age of Jason", easily one of the most complex tunes here and a real good pick for any fan of Dream Theater or Anubis Gate, complete with some sizzling guitar work and layers of keyboards.
Though they aren't a household name just yet, it shouldn't be long before Mile Marker Zero are one of the most talked about progressive metal bands on the planet. Great musicians, excellent vocals, and memorable songs all equals a recipe for success....don't miss this one!
Track Listing
- Source Code 2:17
- 2001 5:11
- Digital Warrior 7:25
- Architect 5:18
- Building a Machine 6:39
- Victory 5:26
- JCN 4:32
- Middle Game 1:30
- Propoganda 5:42
- Sacred Geometry 2:57
- Clarity 1:29
- U.I. 3:54
- 2020 4:21
- Age of Jason 3:59
- Collective 6:41
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