Dropshard - Anywhere But Home (sonic vista 15/2/11)
Last Updated on Sunday, 06 February 2011 13:08 Written by Pete Loxham
The debut album by Dropshard - Anywhere But Home sits in the progressive metal category but is an album that can be enjoyed irrespective of genre restrictions. From the opening vocal harmonies there is an intent in this music which demands attention.
Further, the album provides a diverse mix of melody, powerful riffing, subtle textures and a conceptual theme that grows on every listen. Don't be mistaken into thinking this is just a professionaly produced debut because the compositions have more depth which surface on repeated plays. The band have eschewed the trend to pad the album out, instead they have put all there efforts into producing 1 sublime 40 minute piece.
There are shades of Riverside and even early Genesis that only Italian bands seem to be able to pay homage to without appearing obvious. But the true originality belies comparisons.
Although a concept suite, the album is broken down into sections telling the story of an innocent childs take on the world. Into the 3rd section (Images of Mind) the album begins to grow into a whole greater than the sum of its individual parts. It evokes moods that will capture your imagination with exquisite guitar and complex arrangements. In true prog style the album stands up to repeated plays and I am convinced it will grow in stature over time. Quite a remarkable effort considering it's the Milan based outfit's debut album
4.5/5
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