SAFE IN CONFORMITY

Second opus from this French Canadian band Their "Safe In Conformity" sounds less complex than their debut and the overall feeling leans more on the neo than on the eclectic side of prog. The first two songs are a clear confirmation of this perception.

It is of evidence that this "Safe In Conformity" doesn't hold the same intricate approach than their debut. The fact that their lead vocalist left the band was not helping a great deal. One could be annoyed with his Anderson like vocals but at least he was passionate, skilled and performing. Jean-François Désilets has a much less interesting voice and most of the songs here sounds pretty flat.

Only one guy left, but the sound of their music drastically changed (not for the best). Not only their musical style (from eclectic to neo), but vocals now seemed to sit more on the Gabriel side. I'm afraid that the music played is just the mark of one out of plenty (which was not the case with their good "Conservation Of Mass").

There are hardly any great song featured on this album: just a bunch of average neo-prog attempts. Deception is high even if "Sunburnt" sounds quite effective. What's left is unfortunately weak metal stuff which is quite uncomfortable to my ears.

The closing track " Omnipresent Umbra" is the best by far. Although vocals are quite weak, it offers substantial and excellent guitar break. The one and only great song form this album.

Two stars.