DEBATE AND RHYME

Americans No More Pain begun life in 2008 from Old Bridge, New Jersey and and after some line-up changes they settled a line-up of five musicians with Mike Roman on guitar/vocals, Mike Rainone on guitar/vocals, Matt McDermott on keyboards/vocals, Jason Weinstein on bass and Dan Rainone on drums.While heading for their debut Mike Rainone quit from his duties and the remaining quartet recorded ''Debate and rhyme'' in 2011, released as a self-produced CD.

Weird album this is, the members desribed themselves as an Alternative/Prog Rock outfit and for the most of its part their debut has much more to do with bands such as ALICE IN CHAINS and INCUBUS than Yes or King Crimson.While not particularly progressive, the first few tracks are amazingly energetic, basically based on powerful guitars and bass, tight songwriting and expressive vocals with little involvement from keyboards.Good music though with some striking tunes and a reckless attitude, fronted by the mascular riffs, lead parts and rhythm section, supported by occasional piano and organ washing.The latter part of this work is a different story.Three long tracks, in which the group doesn't abandon its punchy approach, but decided to throw in some classic progressive elements: Elaborate melodies, acoustic interludes and preludes, some Neo-Classical fireworks and developing, multi-themed structures eventually respond to the band's statement being a progressive act.Strange musicianship continues, as you can hear echoes of KANSAS, PORCUPINE TREE and IQ appearing in the same track with pronounced keyboard lines and epic atmospheres, which retain a balance between both emotional and attacking singing parts.Very modern sound, but the progressive edges are easily recognizable.

A tireless, bombastic and heavy modern Alternative/Prog Rock album.Some great songs and vocals, solid performances and an enjoyable result.Warmly recommended.