Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius: Impostor!

Upon initial listen, Joe Deninzon & Stratospheerius' sixth studio album, Impostor!, may overwhelm with its intricate arrangements and complex music, seemingly crafted to cement their place within the progressive symphonic rock realm. The influence of Kansas and The Neal Morse Band is unmistakable, echoing the classic prog sounds of Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd and Rush. However, as the album's nuances unfold, its true beauty emerges.

This NYC-based quartet, comprising Joe Deninzon (lead vocals, electric & acoustic violin, viola, acoustic guitars), Michelangelo Quirinale (guitar, backing vocals), Paul Ranieri (bass, backing vocals) Bill Hubuaer (keyboards, backing vocals), and Jason Gianni (drums, percussion, backing vocals) showcases exceptional musicianship. Each instrument shines, particularly Paul Ranieri’s astounding bass playing, which captivates with its engaging intricacies.

Standout tracks like "Outrage Olympics", with its explosive energy, and the title track "Impostor!", showcasing Deninzon's soaring vocals, demonstrate the band's mastery. "Frame by Frame" and "Chasing the Dragon" further highlight Stratospheerius' skillful blending of progressive rock and fusion elements. The album also features some well-known guests, such as Michael Sadler (Saga), Rachel Flowers, Fernando Perdomo, and vocalist Randy McStine (Porcupine Tree, Steven Wilson) amongst others.

The keyboard and synth layers, courtesy of Bill Hubuaer, weave rich melodies, crafting immersive moments that render additional hooks unnecessary. While Impostor! may not be the most memorable record of 2024, its intricacy and musicianship make it addictive.

As a newcomer to Stratospheerius' discography, I'm impressed by their unique sound. Impostor! stands out for its refined blend of progressive rock, fusion and jazz-rock. Fans of intricate musicianship and complex compositions will find this album captivating… just like I did… cheers!

Track Listing:
1. Voodoo Vortex Part II (1:42)
2. Outrage Olympics (4:53)
3. Impostor! (8:15)
4. Cognitive Dissonance (4:58)
5. Storm Surge (6:22)
6. Frame By Frame (5:22)
7. Voodoo Vortex Part I (5:20)
8. Tripping The Merry-Go-Round (1:53)
9. Chasing The Dragon (12:22)

Added: November 10th 2024
Reviewer: Jose Antonio Marmol
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 347
Language: english

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