ANYWHERE OUT OF THE WORLD

Exaggerated promotion? This may be your decision in the end. The record label comes with the statement 'Each track leads the listener towards a different part of music. It is not possible to unambiguously label this with any single music style'. We will see. Okay, soon I will have a try anyhow regarding the latter statement. This is another heavy progressive rock album which some time ago appeared on my radar screen with a bang. HELLHAVEN are enriching the progressive rock scene, at least when it comes to Poland. The band members know how to rock the house in a catchy melodic manner. And due to diversity, and some weirdness on top of it, I would say that it would be somewhat short-sighted, if you will reduce this one to a pure prog metal album.

A compact song structure is featured, missing any focus on overburdening solo activity. Based on that they are fusing diverse styles, instruments and other resources to an unpredictable brew which is really challenging. First of all Sebastian Najder's expressive vocal appearance should be noted. This surely is conspicious, showing a range from charming to growling. He partially acts in a way ... well, I'm wondering if he may need new vocal chords each time the studio recordings were finished or a tour has been completed. Maybe for one or two it will be overmuch, it's a special trademark anyhow. Otherwise, musicianship is top-notch in general, and so there's not anything which should discourage to have a try anyway.

If there is any story assigned to that affair - the title track probably sees them leaving Mother Earth, at least spiritually, where the song next to last returns the trip's essence when coming back: heaven is not differing! Well, a free style interpretation, I must admit. But both songs are my favourites too, this is much more meaningful maybe. And in between you will be invited to take the rollercoaster. Polka here, Raga there, female vocals, trumpet, samples, scratches aso, everything skillfully embedded with heart and mind. Terrific album, excellent find, as it was with Abstrakt's Limbosis album in a similar way!