Nevermore is (on this album):
Warrel Dane- Vocals
Jeff Loomis- Lead guitarist
Pat O'Brian- Rhythm guitarist (No longer in Nevermore)
Jim Sheppard- Bass
Van Williams- Drums (Mike Portnoy, are you listening??? :P)
Note: I tend to look at things from a musical point of view, not necessarily about the content of the lyrics, after all I want to listen to music so whats wrong with that? I want to leave the song deciphering up to you! :)
Nevermore, the band that needs an introduction so they won't have to need an introduction! :P
This Seattle-native metal band that puts the slap on the face of all the other 'metal' bands from there. well maybe not so much Queensrhyche or Metal Church but hey....
Nevermore is just simply pure metal, and this album is them in their rawest phase yet, and it sounds oh so good. It has to be noted that Jeff Loomis and Pat O'brian are using a six stringers. Politics of Ecstasy is intensely technical and Nevermore's at their progressive best.
On to the track-by-track review!
1. The Seven Tongues of God (5/5)- This song hits you at first with some really heavy riffing, followed by a very 'feel-good' riff which is the verse riff. Superb guitar playing, very awesome solo that has a sweet rhythm riff behind it. If you listen closely during the chorus you can hear Jim Sheppard laying down some pretty damn thick bass lines. Warrels vocals are also finessely delivered, do not believe it when others say that it's not quite as good as the later albums.
2. This Sacrament (5/5)- Amazing song. Van Williams shines a LOT in this song. Warrels vocals are top-notch in this song, I love them. Great lyrics, it has to be noted. When Warrel sings "we shall be one..." it sends a chill up my spine, yes it's that good.
3. Next in Line (4/5)- Great Song. Great intro tremolo-picked riff. It blasts into a spretty much serene song. Very dark overall, with a twisted sounding ending.
4. Passenger -(5/5) The ballad of this album. I'm not the biggest fan of ballads, but Nevermore has made some of the best metal ballads I've ever heard. Warrels singing is filled with emotion and he actually tries, rarely screams... he basically carries this song. This song is a highlight for sure.
5. Politics of Ecstasy (5.1/5) Yes, the title track is among the best on this album. It's a very twisted deranged song, progressive as hell. It begins with a sample of a man talking about his changed views. The song has a strong meaning.... I'll leave it up to you.
6. Lost (3.5/5)- This is an okay song, its not bad by ANY means. The "who am I?" thing that Warrel says sounds kinda funky and offsets the song some. Great bridge, it's very strong. Williams' drumming is top-notch however...
7. Tiananmen Man (5.2/5) Another amazing song, the lyrics spreak strongly and the muscianship is superb. Great singing, Loomis is a riff monster truly one of the best guitar players I have ever heard and been influenced by. Just listen to it!
8. Precognition (4.5/5)- The only flaw this sweet instrumental has is it's length, but this acoustic little bit is very solid and very sweet. A very good instrumental, which is something Nevermore hardly does. (are you listening!?)
These last two songs are worth the money of this album, imo....
9. 42147 (5.5/5) Furious playing at first, it sounds almost Maiden-ish it is so divine. It transitions into a lovely riff courtesy of Jeff Loomis which inevitably carries the 'transitioning' parts of the song. Amazing riffing, cool lyircs.... highlight!!!
10. The Learning (5.4/5)- It seems as if Nevermore put the two best songs last. This ender is phenomonal, and it's length is nothing to be messed with. It may be a little long for some people, it flows oh so smoothly for me. Great drumming, basslines, vocals, and especially RIFFING!!!
All in all, this is a superb album. Nevermore is a litte-known about band. Great singing, great musicianship, great lyricism and messages are STRONG. If you see this, snatch it up asap! (4.75/5)
