I've been letting this CD review by Finland's Nosdrama marinate for a very long time. The first time I listened I was rather unimpressed - I was also going through the loss of a family member so that affected my ability to listen well. I've kept Gravity on my mp3 player for months and have listened to tracks out of album context. I've listened straight through a few times as well.
This falls closer towards melodic rock than progressive rock or metal. I would say fans of Porcupine Tree would enjoy these songs as one can hear song-craft takes precedence over dexterity and flash. The production of the rhythm section is fantastic. The bass and drums are loud and distinct enough that you know what's happening at all times. Keyboards add texture and melody and never steal the show.
Repeated listens reveal many pleasant vocal hooks. Vocal delivery is clean and in a lower register, sounding conversational and never over the top. I detect some Black Album-era James Hetfield and Steven Wilson influence.
By the time track 5 "End of the World" plays one can identify the vocals are going to stay with a distinct style. Track 6 includes acoustic guitar and Track 10 brings piano into the mixture.
Gravity is a grower. I enjoy the English lyrics sung with a Finnish accent. A while back I thought Muse and Radiohead were kinda boring but now I can see the mass appeal to well crafted rock songs. I'm unfamiliar with the previous music of Nosdrama but it would be interesting to hear what their next move will be. This could have a broader appeal than I'm willing to admit.
Track Listing
1. Lighthouse
2. Gravity
3. Receiver
4. The Curity
5. End of the World
6. Mortal's Instrumentof Science
7. Wood Castle Dances
8, Last Steps
9. Violent Sky
10. Written in Blood
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