CHAIN REACTION

I don't ever write reviews, but I thought this underrated group deserved more attention.

Distorted Harmony's second major release is a strong album all the way through, and very much worth your time if you are fan of progressive music. Genre and style descriptions include progressive, metal, alternative, and djent. All are accurate descriptions, but none are particularly overwhelming as they make for a pleasing combination. Simply put, these guys know how to write a song without over emphasizing any one style. They can seamlessly flow and build from one section to the next, without dwelling on any one part (the complete opposite of say, Dream Theater). Outside of the songwriting, the vocalist (Misha) is one of the biggest strengths of the band. His clean, soaring, and melodic yet mellow vocals are the foundation for an already great cast of instrumental support.

As for the instruments, most of the chugging / djent riffs remain in the background, to support the vocals and keyboard. The intensity of the guitar waxes and wanes depending on the section, which keeps these sections refreshing despite the repetitive riffs commonly heard with more extreme djent. The keyboards are great, playing typical background chords, solos, arpeggios, and occasionally a lead riff or section. Some tracks, including "As You Go" depart from metal and djent styles entirely, with the band instead opting to feature acoustic guitar and piano to support the vocals. Interestingly, these tracks compliment the overall feel of the album and are much welcomed.

The band cites influences from Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Opeth, Symphony X, and others as influences. All of these influences can be heard if you listen carefully. Yet, Distorted Harmony maintains their integrity creating their own distinct sound. Often times, I found myself thinking certain segments sounded very similar to say Dream Theater, but without the boring slow segments (soft rock), uninspired lyrics, and excessive guitar / keyboard wankery.

All in all, this band should be accessible to anyone even casually interested in progressive rock & metal or djent. Distorted Harmony's biggest strengths include Misha's amazing voice and the ability to mix mellow moments with heaviness and virtuosity - particularly when it comes to song-writing, song-structure, and flow. It certainly helps that the choruses are all catchy, distinct, and not overly repetitive. Definitely check out this under rated band!

9/10; My favorite prog album of 2014 so far.