PelleK: A Marvelous Method Of Reclusion

Having collaborated in the wonderful progressive rock band The Anabasis and on their album, Back From Being Gone, concept and lyric writer (and author) George Andrade has brought his talents to the latest project by singer PelleK; the latter a vocalist known for arranging and performing excellent classic rock/metal covers and also reinterpreting anime themes, as well as releasing albums under his own name. This latest project however is a much more personal and revealing visualisation, covering loneliness and depression and the reclusive path it often enforces. In fact, to best describe it, here's a quote from George Andrade, who shaped the idea after discussions with PelleK and moulded it into the lyrics this album revolves round...

"It is an understanding, empathetic, and emotionally authentic portrayal – unflinching - for those who are lonely and depressed written by two guys, PelleK (music and concept) and myself (concept/story development and lyrics), who have walked the well-worn path of reclusion many times, who know the terrain well, and have been fortunate enough to return."

This is serious and insightful in a way rock music seldom attempts, however I'm pleased to say that while the music certainly melds with the words quite excellently, The Marvelous Method Of Reclusion is actually an uplifting listen. Unusually the scenes often take place through three voices; the inner voice we all have in our heads, the heard voice that often replies to those inner questions and the dark heard voice which often contradicts the more rational thoughts.

Vocally PelleK is known for his impressive range and yet here, he keeps that talent in check and simply delivers an excellent performance from start to finish. Surprisingly, he actually reminds of Nik Kershaw in terms of having a hugely engaging, enigmatic style, although it's no surprise that with this album being his 'baby', that his vocals shine proudly throughout. Those tones aren't the only 80s inspired aspects, some of the musical themes, while bullish and progressive in a Neo-Prog kind of way, also bringing an 80s vibe into play; 'From The Depths' actually a little reminiscent of "Hymn" by Ultravox in its lyrical structure, or at least it is after thunderous double kick blasts, dextrous keyboards and gyrating guitars have made their mark.

If anything, it is those contrasts brought together that best describe AMMOR; dancing melodies, excellent vocals and simply stupendous musicianship creating an eclectic but focused set of songs that stand up wonderfully to repeat listens. The lyrical concept is intricate and involved, while always feeling genuine, honest and sympathetic to its core themes and again, like the music, what could have been a maudlin topic, turns into a reason to celebrate, even if the journey isn't always an easy one.

'The Space Between' proves that PelleK can create slightly simpler, catchier moments too, the hugely memorable chorus a real stick in the memory banks sing along. Although after numerous listens the overlong and repetitive fade out undoubtedly loses its impact. However with 'In Windows', 'Whispers' and 'The Master Of Reclusion' striking a stark balance between Rock, Prog and Pop, along with some sumptuous keyboard, bass, drums and guitar work, the occasional missed step is quickly forgotten and even more swiftly forgiven.

A Marvelous Method Of Reclusion is an excellent example of how to take a delicate topic and turn it into a compelling conceptually based album that entertains and enlightens on an equal footing. That it does so with such sharp musical ability and an undeniably memorable selection of songs is all the more impressive.

Track Listing
1. The Path Of Reclusion
2. From The Depths
3. I Know You Don't Know
4. In Windows
5. Intermezzo
6. The Space Between
7. Whispers
8. All That I Am
9. The Master Of Reclusion
10. A Reason Unseen

Added: May 26th 2016
Reviewer: Steven Reid
Score:
Related Link: Pledge for the PelleK album here
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Language: english

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