Formed in 2006 by two former ‘Edenbridge’ members Roland Navratil (Drums) and Frank Pitters (keyboards) and eventually joined by the remaining personnel set out their musical vision in the field of melodic hard rock. After trying out numerous vocalists, Jake E was drafted in to perform these duties.
From the opening title track, there is an air of quality about the recording. Each instrument has perfected its sound and is mixed accordingly, sometimes clinically. I am immediately drawn to comparisons with bands like ‘Ten’, ‘Insania’, ‘Journey’ and early ‘Narnia’. Keyboards do play a big part in this recording, but in this genre it is somewhat expected. The vocal delivery is both strong and full of emotion. The male voice is much more suited to this music and more to my taste than some female fronted musical output lately.
The artwork is quite spectacular courtesy of Columbian artist Felipe Machada.
‘The Edge of the Blade’ has some ripping guitar work whilst encompassing some eastern influences in the arrangements with the keyboard parts. ‘Inner Demons’ continues down this diverse musical path and in general on the album the galloping guitars intertwined with some progressive moments do fit very well. Quite a strange choice of cover version is included as the closing song in the form of ‘Don’t Pay the Ferryman’ (originally by ‘Chris De Burgh’ of all people!) but is much more rocking than ‘Lady in Red’!
It’s not a “heavy” listen; most fans of this genre would not expect that, it’s an emotional roller coaster ride of technical brilliance, full of melodic guitar hooks and powerful vocals.
http://www.dignityband.com
http://www.myspace.com/dignityband
http://www.napalmrecords.com
