MindAhead: 6119 - Part I

Hailing from Pisa, Tuscany I bring you the progressive metal band MindAheaD which formed in 2000. It took a while but they eventually released their debut titled Reflections in 2016 and followed it with their sophomore effort 6119 - Part I in 2022. I have not heard the debut but as far as I know the concept continues with their latest focusing on the main character 6119 and his personal journey through physical reality and dream state, seemingly trapped somewhere in between and his need to figure out where he truly belongs. I think fans of sci-fi should appreciate the band’s attention to detail in creating 6119’s inner universe.

The band hits on power and progressive metal and I suppose Dream Theater might be an influence, but I thought of Ayreon even more so. That might be due to the vocals, both male and female, hitting operatic highs and deep growls, and everything in between. Both vocalists have a great range and emotive flair and are in tune and on point. The guitar work is excellent as well, whether riffing or soloing, with spine tingling moments attributed to both electric and acoustic.

The first track “Prologue� is an atmospheric electronic soundscape with jagged edges, softened with keyboard strings and a melancholic aura. It leads directly into “Burning Horizon� where power metal guitar riffs are unleashed immediately. The male and female vocals help give this the Ayreon reference. Neoclassical shredding, burning guitar solos, and great vocals help warrant repeated listens. The longest track is the seventeen minute epic “Dancing In The Desert� highlighted by various atmospheres and moods, dramatic stop-starts, soaring guitar, and furious progressive metal riffage. The acoustic guitar is also noteworthy, and the vocals are impactful and catchy. “What You Are� features fine vocal harmonies and a slowly building soundscape leading to a bombastic chorus. The band’s chops come to the fore with some tricky rhythms and added complexity, even as the band takes a more nuanced approach.

This band has all the tools to be around for a long time. Let’s hope they get the recognition they deserve.

A Rockshots Records’ release.

The band is:
Kyo Calati (vocals)
Sandro Macelloni (vocals)
Nicola D’Alessio (guitars)
Matteo Ferrigno (drums)
Guido Scibetta (guitars)
Matteo Prandini (bass)

Track Listing:
1. Prologue (2:00)
2. Burning Horizon (5:24)
3. Dancing In The Desert (17:06)
4. What You Are (6:38)
5. The Last Tide (4:40)
6. Beautiful Mistake (6:29)
7. Innocence (2:36)
8. At The Gates Of Night - Part I (The Old Poet) and Part II (At The Gates) (9:05)
9. At The Gates Of Night - Part III (Lost In The Loop) (3:12)

Added: August 9th 2024
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Facebook
Hits: 324
Language: english

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