Kobra and the Lotus: Prevail I
Imagine a progressive metal group with strong overtones of early Dream Theater but lead by a female singer who sings with power and conviction. Kobra and the Lotus is such a group and this latest release Prevail I is prime example of moving past musical heroes and finding your own identity.
Not since the 1980's (but "Ra" had a great radio hit in the late 1990's) has a metal group put out a single that was worthy enough to be referred to as metal but melodic enough to hold a different audience on radio, "You Don't Know" the third track on this record is a rousing rocker full of lyrical smarts and lush vocals but searing guitars and a driving percussion meant for the great outdoor arenas.
The following song "Specimen X" is just as engaging but sporting a heavier edge. "Light Me Up" is the next single that blazes through the speakers with layered harmonies and progressive metal solos that serve the song but remind you this is not some pop group. In "Manifest Destiny" KATL switches gears to progressive thrash with a symphonic arrangement that lacks a keyboard yet instead uses the lead singer to fill in the melody has the rest of the band executes it mission to shake off the roof tiles.
I continue to find deeper appreciation for progressive music in general when considering the hybrid directions a solid band can travel to and still come out sounding original and refreshing. With "Victim" the band plays off an early Rush influence while belting out Kobra-created mixtures of progressive metal and thrash elements. "Check the Phyrg" is an instrumental masterpiece of virtuoso guitar solo work that could make Vinnie Moore and George Lynch jealous.
If my wishes could come true I would have every progressive metal album end with a Helloween-tinged crowd pleaser full of original lyrics and feminine convictions sang with a mighty melodic voice that captures your soul well after the record ends. Being more a purist these days I prefer to listen to my groups with digital equipment in my writing den. Kobra and the Lotus changes my mind. I would see them live tomorrow.
Track List:
- Gotham 4:23
- TriggerPulse 4:13
- You Don't Know 4:22
- Specimen X (The Mortal Chamber) 6:25
- Light Me Up 3:44
- Manifest Destiny 4:16
- Victim 4:20
- Check The Phyrg 4:10
- Hell On Earth 4:23
- Prevail 4:12
Added: October 3rd 2017
Reviewer: Mark Antony Rossi
Score:  
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 1725
Language: english
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