The extensive use of female vocals, especially backing harmonies, is a unique touch that further enhances the sound palette. All songs sit between six and nine minutes, thus allowing space for the band to expand and explore various phrases. The opening pair are among my favourites, as is Circles where the higher tempo is more to my liking than the more atmospheric (subtle) Ghost Rider. While fans of latter-day Rush will still find much to cherish on this disc (try the song Night Drive), there is equal space for those who enjoy the likes of Frost, The Pineapple Thief and modern-day Yes, Marillion, and Galahad.Įvery song is easily accessible, with strong hooks and melodies, yet there is enough depth to the compositions to deserve repeat plays. The music has clear similarities to the current sound of the older neo-prog bands that are still running. The keyboards, bass and drums add the rhythmic complexity. The guitar is used for soloing, detail and texture. On this album the riffage has been left behind. Previously I could stretch to a description of prog-metal-lite for at least some of the music. ![]() Simples!Īs with their last two albums, the music can best be described as heavy-prog. ![]() Dead End Space is one of those bands that just keeps creating a sound and a set of songs that I enjoy. I guess it comes down to a specific combination of sounds and arrangements created by a particular set of people, striking a chord with my inner, musical soul (or whatever!). Now, I have long-since given up trying to rationalise why some bands are a hit with me and other, seemingly-similar artists are received less favourably. ![]() Five years later and The Resistance received equal enthusiasm. My very positive critique of Distortion Of Senses for DPRP back in 2013 can be read here. It was the first album under that name by which I first discovered their music. Having (re)formed a trio with bassist Niklas Högberg and drummer Galle Johansson in 2008, they released a trio of albums as the Johnny Engstrom Band, before changing their moniker to the more inspiring Dead End Space. Chicago-born, Swedish-living guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Johnny Engstrom has been working as a musician and playing in bands for over 30 years.
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