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How did I miss this one? I must be slipping - this one
has been out since late 2005 and I only recently heard of
it. Apparently, Xsavior is a supergroup of sorts formed by
members of 3 other bands: Mind's Eye, Novak and Tears Of Anger.
These guys sound nothing like any of those bands, however.
Xsavior is a symphonic band that draws more than a little
inspiration from countrymates A.C.T. (another fantastic band)
For those unfamiliar with the sound - think a hugely vocal
oriented Queen-fest with much more complicated structures
that still retain melody. Add to that some Pain of Salvation-ish
quirkiness and perhaps some Spock's Beard or Flower Kings
flavors and you have an attempt to describe the sound here.
The keys are aplenty and vary from moog sounds to piano, e
piano, and strings. The moog sound is laser-beam in nature
and Matt Norberg has obviously done his homework when it comes
to quick keystrokes. The guitars are complicated - no simple
chords being played here.
They also will complement the moog solos with great effect.
Special mention for the bass, which also stands out on repeated
listening. This is a VERY varied album, each song can convey
a different mood. The album is made especially interesting
by the main attraction - vocal harmonies. Did I mention Queen?
BIG vocal parts that harmonize wonderfully and evolve in unexpected
directions. The quirky factor is upped here compared to A.C.T.
- so much so that the singer sometimes takes on different
personas (with good effect, actually). This is good quirky
- not bad. (i.e. - melody remains intact and it is very technical)
I think Goran Edman's vocals are great - but I slightly prefer
A.C.T.'S singer - as his range is a bit better in the high
areas. One minor complaint - why use vocal effects? They occasionally
pop up - and I hate them. Especially the "megaphone" voice
effect so many bands use. (Hey you! Yes you - stand still
laddy!) Does anyone actually like that? I don't ever find
myself listening to a song and thinking "Man - this is great
- but only if he was singing through a distorted electric
megaphone. That would be so much better." Anyway - Xsavior
also can get heavier than A.C.T. - bringing out some Pain
of Salvation sounding moments. You almost get the feeling
they are a prog metal band in disguise on occasion - but I
think the "prog rock" tag fits them better.
I have to say this is very different from most prog coming
out lately - and I am hugely impressed. I hope we see more
from these guys - but I am a bit concerned as they have apparently
had some personnel shifts, according to the web site. We'll
have to see.
Rating: 4 stars
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