Hard 20 |
Magellan"Impossible Figures" This band, like the famous explorer they name themselves after, sail the musical oceans, exploring uncharted territories They are a progressive rock/metal band, and frankly are one of the most talented and original ones I've heard in recent years. Their songs are brilliantly written and played, with sophisticated and complex musical arrangements, and an original and different style, even for a progressive rock band. They add a lot of different elements to their music. They are, of course, influenced by the masters of prog, like Yes, ELP, King Crimson, etc., and also by more recently progressive metal bands like Dream Theater and Symphony X, as well as classic rockers like Pink Floyd, Queen, Rush, and Kansas. Their singer (sorry, names and other info were not given) sounds influenced by Freddie Mercury. There is also a great deal of classical influence in their music, with classical piano, horns, strings, and classical style arrangements used very often. Keyboards are a dominant instrument, played throughout in a very sophisticated and innovative manner, that takes the listener on an astral musical journey. This is backed up with the use of metal guitars and power chords, which keeps the music firmly planted in rock and roll. The songs that captured my interest were "Killer Of Hope", a ten minute long prog rock epic; "World Groove", which, as the title suggests, is a musical montage of world music with a rock foundation, and lyrically cries out against all the injustices in the world; "Late For Church", which seriously criticizes organized religion; and "Bach 16", an instrumental, classical number, played on piano, horns, and organ, which appears to be a nod to Mr. Johan Sebastian himself! These guys have taken classic style prog rock, added a touch of metal and some modern elements, and taken it to new places, pushing the prog envelope. As I said before, very exploratory. And it works! Magellan definitely have what it takes to be the next kings of prog! |