Ion Vein: IV v2.0

It always seems unusual to use technological counting methods in other contexts. In the popular sense, most people recognize that 2.0 comes after 1.0 and that there will likely be other numbers like 2.5, 3.0, and so on. Such numbers suggest progress and help people understand that their version of some technology is more advanced than those belonging to others. Significantly, lots of people have adopted this form of counting to suggest a new stage in life like developing a new talent, losing weight, getting stronger, finding a new job. Ion Vein's newest release, entitled IV v2.0 has a similar resonance. On the one hand, it's merely building on the name of the last release IV v1.0, but it also signals the arrival of a new vocalist, Scott Featherstone.

I've never heard Ion Vein's music before now, so I can't compare Featherstone to his predecessor. Here's what I can tell you: Featherstone played with Enertia and is a former member of Attica USA. His voice is strong and resonant, somewhat like Ronnie James Dio at his peak. There are times, in fact, when the similarity between the two singers is almost uncanny. Check out the first track "Seemless" about half-way through for an example of what I mean. I also liked "Fool's Parade," but was less impressed with the third track "This is Me," mostly because it is slower, longer, and less substantive. It isn't a bad track, just not an engaging one. On the whole, I'd say this is a good release, but one that offers only the briefest of glimpses into what this band can do. I'd definitely like to hear more from them in the future; I'm especially curious to hear more of their progressive side, something that is only teased at here. If you like a nice, traditional, blend of progressive rock and heavy metal, then this one's for you.

Track Listing:
1. Seemless
2. Fool's Parade
3. This is Me

Added: January 11th 2013
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 1890
Language: english

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