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Wastefall: Self Exile
 Wastefall release their third album titled Self Exile. Their previous album, Soultrain 21, is considered a masterpiece by many of their fans. The first thing one will notice when listening to Self Exile is how different it is from their previous albums. While they continue with a prog-metal vibe, they've increased the heaviness up a huge notch. Wastefall can still be compared to Pain of Salvation, but they have their own unique sound and approach.
The U.S. release contains 11 tracks total. After the intro, you are hit hard and fast, something often missing from progressive metal. Each of the songs fit nicely together and they are all well made, well vocalized, complex and unique. As would be expected with a prog-metal group, there are numerous time changes that keep the listeners attention. While there are no epic songs on this release as there were on the previous album, it is not needed here. Furthermore, there are no wicked solos, but again, they are not needed in the context of these songs. The riffing is hard, with good tone, and it's complemented with great drumming. Wastefall's lead singer, Domenik Papaemmanouil, is a talented vocalist, and he has a variety of styles in his arsenal, from gritty, to harsh screaming (though not growling), to clean and emotional, all the while always staying in key. He is also complemented on this album with two female singers. While these singers are not permanent fixtures in the band, they are talented and their style fits well. Lyrically this album is above average, yet at times the rhymes seem forced, as do certain word choices. However, the lyrical content is intelligent, thoughtful, and even insightful.
If you have a rule of thumb, that each song must be distinct, then this album will pass your test. This latest release from Wastefall is definitely worth a listen. After the first listen, it's worth another listen, just to appreciate the album.
Track Listing
1. Intro
2. Willow Man
3. The Muzzle Affection
4. Dance of Descent
5. Another Empty Haven
6. Strife for Definition
7. Sleepwalk
8. Eternal Yearning Entities
9. Utopia Fragmented
10. 4 Minutes to Abandon
11. Provoke the Divine
Added: July 2nd 2006
Reviewer: Scott Borre
Score:  
Related Link: The Lasers Edge/Sensory
Hits: 3801
Language: english
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| » SoT Staff Roundtable Reviews: |
Wastefall: Self Exile
Posted by Pete Pardo, SoT Staff Writer on 2006-07-03 07:53:27
My Score:
From Greece comes Wastefall, who are poised to make a mark on the US progressive metal scene with their debut release for Sensory titled Self Exile. This new album, which is actually the bands third overall, is a blistering combination of metal, Middle Eastern tones, and complex prog. At times reminiscent of Pain of Salvation (especially the vocals), Evergrey, and Nevermore, Wastefall are certainly capable of bludgeoning the listering with intricate, heavy riffs, as on "Another Empty Haven", or branching off into exploratory, passionate prog, like they do so well on "Strife For Definition". The wonderful drum and percussion work on the CD is simply masterful, adding layers of rhythmic tones and ethnic flavors that you don't normally hear on prog-metal outings these days unless you happen to be Orphaned Land. Another interesting aspect of Wastefall is that they don't partake in extended moments of self-indulgence like many other acts in the genre, so don't expect 5-minute guitar or keyboard solos here. Instead, the listener is presented with a contrast between melancholic and intense passages that only add to the heightened drama that each song provides. Vocally as well, these guys are spot in, as the lead male vocals are somewhere between Pain of Salvation and Evergrey (a good combination if you ask me) with just a touch of female backing vocals added for good measure.
If you are looking for something a little different in the land of progressive metal, you can do no wrong than to pick Self Exile up. It's no doubt going to be one of the most talked about albums of 2006.
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