MYSTIC-FORCE
"Man
Vs. Machine" (Siegen Records)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Mystic-Force is poised to be the next breakout sensation in the power
metal underground. Mystic-Force already have two solid CDs under their belts, but have now returned with a third (and
even better) effort entitled "Man Vs. Machine."
With a style reminiscent of what Queensryche would sound like if they didn't change a whole lot
after "Rage For Order" Mystic-Force add updated touches of progressive metal to their power metal
core for a near perfect blend of melody and technical precision. The skillful arrangements add depth
and emotional intrigue to the machine/humanity story. The music is a unified whole that rocks just
as hard as it challenges the mind. The interesting element here is that the band
takes the first person view of themselves as the machine wishing to be human knowing full well that man's
imperfections are built into machine's hardware and software.
"Identical Strangers" takes the Queensryche sound and
adds its own aggressive edge with progressive embellishments worthy of guitar heroes. Even the instrumental "Master The Moments"
adds flair and sensibility.
New vocalist William Wren takes a voice slightly reminiscent of an aggressive Geoff Tate. Wren can
belt out the lyrics in a variety of ways. Aggressive rockers like "Circuitboard Ministry" displays
Wren's penchant for passion and slower tunes like "One And Only" and "Suffering Minds" get
similar treatment as the songs lend themselves to equally passionate renditions in stark contrast to
the bombast of the heavy rockers.
Mystic-Force delivers with top-notch writing and memorable songs - a damn good combination if
you ask me. "Man Vs. Machine" deserves a home in your CD player.
And Travis Smith does the artwork! You can't go wrong!
"Man Vs. Machine" was produced by Mystic-Force, engineered by Rich Davis, and mixed by Drew Mazurek.
Mystic-Force is William Wren on vocals, Rich Davis on guitars and guitar synth, Keith Menser on bass and keyboards, and Chris Lembach on drums and electronic percussion.
For more information visit http://www.mystic-force.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the
cover makes you wanna hurl.
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