Infinite Spectrum: Misguided

While many bands attempt to meld and graft disparate ideas onto progressive metal ideals in an attempt to reinvigorate the genre, Infinite Spectrum, a trio (expanded to a quartet) formed in New York in 2007, are more comfortable taking the well worn Dream Theater or Symphony X templates and presenting them with boundless enthusiasm and conviction. The results are surprisingly impressive with a real sense of energy infusing the now taken as read musical virtuosity required to even attempt this style of music. Misguided is the band's debut offering and as an introduction it has to be said that it really is rather tasty. Recorded as a core trio of Alex Raykin (guitar/clarinet/synth/drum programming), Alex Repetti (bass/synth/drum programming) and Will Severin (vocals/additional programming) (Eddie Redovane is pictured and mentioned as "drums", but not credited in the musician list), Infinite Spectrum have their sound boosted by a number of guests handling violin, viola, cello and trumpet. Shannon Johnson who provides vocals on the song "The Truth" and a trio of actors (one is actually Severin) who take on spoken word roles also, quite literally, add to the cast. So from that you'll have worked out we are in full blown conceptual mode, with Misguided being "a tale of love lost, betrayal, revenge and redemption" and I'll add to that list murder and madness. It is a far reaching ambitious project, but one that is pulled off in fine style, with the spoken word sections integrated into the songs well, while the booklet that accompanies the CD goes a long way to helping you keep up with what is being portrayed. Therefore avoiding the concept itself getting in the way of what the album is hoping to achieve.

Musically things are equally assured, with Raykin and Repetti displaying wonderful skills on their chosen instruments, but also understanding that their contributions hit even harder when combined sympathetically. Severin is a fine singer, capable of a full on holler, while also displaying a tender, more restrained side that proves engaging, while also moving the story along. The comparisons made above to Dream Theater and Symphony X, give the impression that Misguided may fall on the wrong side of generic, but clever arrangements and the mix of, instrumental, vocal and spoken word sections keeps things relatively fresh. As does the similarity to the likes of Presto Ballet, or even Kansas on slower songs such as "More Than He Bargained For". That said it is the more exuberant instrumental wizardry of "Ghost Of The Past/Abducted" which more readily illustrates what Infinite Spectrum are all about.

I must admit that I find a lot of straight up prog metal to be less than satisfying these days, what with so many acts happy to rehash a tired, over used approach. However bands like Infinite Spectrum show that when this style is handled with a little more thought, care and individuality, it still can hit hard.

Misguided? Not a bit of it!

Track Listing
1. Overture
2. Betrayed
3. She
4. The Pact
5. More Than He Bargained For
6. Day and Night
7. Ghost of the Past/Abducted
8. The Truth
9. Man of Darkness
10. The Challenge

Added: June 21st 2013
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Infinite Spectrum on BandCamp
Hits: 3484
Language: english

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