Maryland's self described "Soul/Rock trio", Avantguarde release their debut, Out Of The Darkness on Age Records. Avantguarde lists influenences such as Pantera and Mudvayne, to Queen and Peter Gabriel. Imagine Corey Glover of Living Colour singing in a Progressive Metal/Rock outfit. Avantguarde find themselves somewhere in between these artists., not as heavy as some, and not as polished or commercial as the others. Somewhat of a bland mixture of great influences.
Out Of The Darkness, a 15 track concept CD, is about the a man's journey through life. It is best described as a Progressive Rock band that wants to have Pop Rock sensibilities. The choruses on a lot of this release were very forced, and down right out of place, as well as trying to be "too" progressive at times. Chops for chops sake, almost. And while bassist Kris Boyd, vocalist/drummer/keyboardist Pete Garza and guitarist Apostolis Ventouris are all talented musicians, the end musical result falls short. These collections of songs are meant to take you on a journey of some sort, but to where is unknown. The listener is somewhat confused as to what to feel or think.
Avantguarde's Out Of The Darkness does not knock the listener out. As said before, their musical ability is evident, but their songwriting skills are not on par with their playing. As with a lot of bands, chops don't always equal great songs. I found this CD to be on the boring side. Nothing to grab a hold of.
Track Listing
- Fire
- Reason
- Midnight Called
- Voice Of Heaven
- Forgiven
- Out Of The Darkness
- Another Way
- Freedom
- Lost
- My God
- Could It Be
- April/ 5th/96
- Psalm 91
- The Grip
- Dream
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