" Sidestepping many of prog-metal's sometimes distracting cliches, this CD is a completely satisfying listen for fans looking for a more aggressive progressive approach "
- Progressive Music Management
This particular quote rings so true that I had to open my review with it. The Rodler brood ( Melissa Rodler- vocals, Chris Rodler- guitars, bass, and Brett Rodler- drums) , former members of Leger de Main,
have teamed up with former Andeavor guitarist Steve Matusik to produce one of the better progressive ,melodic, metallic discs this year.
Borrowing the heaviness and intricacies of Fates Warning and blending them with a complex rhythm section reminiscent of early '80's Rush; Mythologic's Standing In Stillness shines from cover to cover. Melissa Rodler's Annie Haslam-like vocal harmonizing is merely the icing on the cake. The band has the ability to balance haunting vocals and crunchy, abrasive guitars in perfect equilibrium, creating a beautiful musical symmetry. This is a sharp contrast to many bands in the genre which only showcase chops and bombast ad nauseatum. The lyrical themes seem to be dark and introspective, thus giving the disc a slight gothic feel, similar to earlier releases by notable band's like The Gathering. Standout tracks include "Battled Beliefs" with it's highly complex instrumental exchanges and the dark, epic "A Dim Too Dark" where Melissa Rodler plays the part of the enchanted songstress to perfection. The band pulls out all the stops during the lengthy instrumental passage, revealing a penchant for incorporating certain avant prog elements and King Crimson styled controlled cacophony.
Just when it seemed as if the progressive metal scene was merely producing clone band after clone band, Mythologic arrives on the scene to show us that it's possible to incorporate many, much used musical approaches, and still create a distinct and interesting sound. Recommended.
Printer Friendly Page
Send to a Friend
