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The last few months have seen some very impressive metal
based progressive rock albums released by Therion, Threshold,
Rush and Porcupine Tree, plus not forgetting the soon to be
released Dream Theatre album. But another that should be mentioned
is this debut by Thought Chamber. Based around guitarist Michael
Harris, together with vocalist Ted Leonard from the excellent
Enchant, this is a very impressive and confidant opening gambit
from this American five piece band.***
The music is complex, with lots of twists and turns, yet
highly melodic. The musicianship is very high with the interplay
between each player intricate and very tight. Harris's guitar
playing is very expressive. Not just the usual metal thrashing,
but lots of different tones are used to really make each piece
expressive and colourfully textured. Nice synth playing from
Bobby Williamson and the rhythm section of bassist Derek Blakley
and drummer Rob Stankiewicz is dynamic and really keeps all
the time changes together in a cohesive, flowing manner.***
The album opens with the instrumental "Premonition", a
sort of overture for the album. This flows into "A Legend's
Avalon", which is currently my favourite piece. Starting with
a powerful opening introduction with lots of interplay between
metal guitars and twiddly synths. There are some very intricate
instrumental sections throughout, even a nice jazz guitar
part which reminds me of Fripp. In saying that there is the
feel, if not the sound, of latter day Crimson at certain points
throughout the album. This opening song alone covers so much
ground and the layering of instruments is so dense yet expertly
arranged.***
Although the heavy elements are abundant throughout the
majority of the tracks, there is some respite in the more
laid back "Silent Shore". This is nicely symphonic with an
eastern flavour to the proceedings. Suitably restrained vocals
by Ted Leonard on this too. Another highlight is the instrumental
"Mr Qwinkle's Therapy". The band really go to town on this
fiery paced workout.***
This really is a very impressive debut and another winning
signing to the always reliable InsideOut label. I predict
that hopefully if there is a second album this band will be
soon at the forefront of challenging progressive metal.***
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