ELEMENT OF THE GRID

Logic Mess originally operated under the name Crystal Lake under which name they released their debut album 'Safe' in 2009. However, a line-up change altered the sound of the band so much that they decided to start afresh, so here is their second 'debut' album (if that makes sense, and it probably doesn't to be fair). Marcin Gawelek (guitar), Lukasz Bienkowski (bass) and Piotr Wypych (keyboards) were joined by Krzysztof Owsiak (vocals) and Piotr Majka (drums) to come up with the new sound, with the band becoming heavier, while the way that they use synths has also brought in a new texture to what they are doing. This is definitely apparent on "The Guards of Integration" where in some of the sections they become Poisoned Electrick Head, no mean feat.

This is a concept album, but it is probably best not to take it too seriously as the scene setting is a little clumsy to say the least, and saying the word "bucks" when referring to dollars just doesn't work in a Polish accent, honest. But, there is a lot of potential here and when they cut loose and go for it they really do hit the ground running. Obviously influenced by Dream Theater, the songs tend to be shorter with a good heavy edge and loads of melody. This is easily one of the best albums I have heard out of Poland in recent years, and while the concept may not be the most original and the voiceovers can be a little painful, this is something I really enjoyed. A solid effort indeed, and I look forweard to the follow-up with interest. Their site is available in English, www.logicmess.com