DEEVOLUTION

If you're looking for a satisfying Prog Metal experience with a modern twist then look no further. This new project from the Tipton brothers (previously Zero Hour) shows a level of professionalism and inspiration that is rarely shown in this scene. Best of all they manage to stay clear of the vanilla and cheese that makes classic Prog Metal hard to swallow for me.

The credit largely goes to the Tipton brothers, who both deliver splendid musicianship, on bass and guitars respectively. Yes, this is a metal album with audible bass guitar and what an enjoyment it is. Despite the musical capacities they keep the focus strongly with the songs, very tasty material, melodious but never corny. Vocalist Rosvold is a big aid in this as his clean but forceful mid-range voice is a welcome relief in a scene crowded with vocalist that confuse hitting high notes with emotion. My main gripe with the album is that after two very strong pieces, 'Divided Day' introduces a ballad-based type of songwriting that make the album drag a bit, but that shouldn't be a problem for the many fans of albums such as 'The Perfect Element' or 'Scenes of a Memory'.

Don't expect new tricks or innovation, this is just solid classic stuff with strong songmaterial and rich musicianship. I'd very much recommended this to all Prog Metal fans.