Italian progressive metallists DGM have returned with their sixth offering, Different Shapes. As a band, DGM have suffered a string of problems with their line up, with guitarist Diego Reali leaving shortly after their previous album was released to persue his solo project, subsequently being replaced by Simone Mularoni. Not long after, keyboardist Fabio Stanges departed from the band and in came Emanuele Casali to fill his place.The accompanying press release informs of what an outstanding guitarist Simon Mularoni is, and from listening to the fast fingered fretboard work on “New Life” it is clear that this isn’t over-exaggerated hype as often is the case. On ballads such as the Dream Theater-esque “The Fallen Angel” and “The Alliance” the clean guitars display the emotional poignancy which enables the songs to come to life. The vocals are a cross between Chity Somapala (Firewind) and Edu Falashi (Angra); massively uplifting yet powerfully projected, vocalist Titta Tani hits every last note with accuracy and natural ease. Proggy keyboard flourishes and meandering guitar passages permeate the sound, particularly on the more progressively orientated tracks such as “The Alliance” and “Frontiers”. “Peace of Mind” offers a single dose of modern thrashiness in contrast. Heavy riffs and chaotic drumming lay the rhythm as clean, melodic vocals are mixed with a more raspy, threatening style rarely heard in this genre.
Expect a skilfully produced prog-power album with plenty of stunning leads, beautiful melodies and tight rhythm. Fans of Dream Theater, Angra and Firewind should check this band out, and hopefully with “Different Shapes”, DGM will get the recognition they deserve.