At the core of Works, a creative Florida-based progressive-rock outfit (band name notwithstanding), are guitarist David Zold, whose musical roots include Hungarian gypsy music, and Steve Juengst, a drummer and keyboard player well versed in classical music. Together, with two other players, they've created an eclectic and intriguing four-song demo that should get the band noticed by labels that matter. Opener "Drunken Opossum" is an instrumental workout that melds the quirkiness of Frank Zappa with the seriousness of Symphony X. On the remaining three tracks, vocalist Rick Rivard never threatens to take his performance over the top. If anything, he needs to emit more emotion, as dramatic songs like "Before the After" and "Infinite Dream" would be even more effective if Rivard sounded more convincing. Works saves its most progressive and heaviest piece, " The Traveler," for last — complete with a manic opening, chunky riffs and spacey solos. This band shows plenty of promise, and I wouldn't be surprised if a label like ProgRock Records or Unicorn Digital signs Works within the next 18 months.
Track Listing:
1) Drunken Opossum
2) Before the After
3) Infinite Dream
4) The Traveler
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
