UK foursome DREAMWAVES is a fairly new creation, but the band does feature members with a past in bands such as Callista and Asperitas, which may or may not ring a bell to those who know the British metal scene. “Elements” is their debut EP, and is set for release through fledgling UK label Infectious Sounds in mid August 2016.
The approach this quartet has to the art of metal is a rather sophisticated one. The drum patterns are steady and carefully moving patterns beneath, often giving associations to a strict and almost mathematical approach to the art of rhythms, and on top the guitars are just as carefully controlled in the riff patterns and guitar movements. The guitars are given a rather more liberal role however, where both riff patterns and guitar solo runs will never be too far away from some quirky, challenging escapades. Sinus inspired movements on top of a carefully controlled foundation of conservative algebra might be an ample description. Most likely rather technically challenging at that too. Light toned, rich cold keyboards floats on top, and occasionally a song will lapse into a calmer interlude with carefully plucked guitars or a calming piano motif to lead the way for a bit, but not all that much time will pass before a controlled metal-oriented pattern or a quirky, flamboyant escapade erupts again, and often a combination of both.
It is crystal clear that this is a band that is extremely tight and competent on all levels. The compositions are sophisticated on all level, the instrument movements demands a high level of prowess to pull off in all departments, and mix and production is crystal clear and applied with a high level of perfection throughout. For me this production becomes a bit dry though. Impressive on a technical level, but lacking the emotional impact I crave when listening to music.
Those with an interest in and fascination of challenging technical progressive metal performed with mathematical precision should find this band and this EP to be right up their alley though, especially those who find quirky, flamboyant and constantly shifting instrument movements to be alluring and hypnotizing on a general basis.
My rating: 65/100
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/dreamwavesuk/?fref=ts
https://dreamwaves.bandcamp.com/
https://www.facebook.com/InfectiousSoundsUK
https://infectioussoundsuk.bandcamp.com/
