Phrygian Gate's self produced album, Black Lines, is the work of just two guys- there is Samuel Axelsson who not only plays guitar, but bass, keyboards and also provides the vocals on this release. Juan A. Jimenez is the other part of this duo; Juan brings the drums and percussion. The two musicians incorporate the styles that have influenced them, including progressive rock and metal.
Both Samuel from Sweden and Juan from Spain, are music teachers so it's no wonder they are well honed musicians. Samuel is a talented all-rounder, from his smooth execution and diveristy on his instruments, he really is a fine guitarist, to his delivery of the vocals, and Juan certainly has the ability to perform on the drums, playing fluidly whether it's rocking songs like "Massacre Designs" or increasing the intensity with his pedals on heavier tracks, such "Separate Lives" and "Death To Follow (The Revolution Of Mankind)", a very cool heavy number, the guys really get grooving at times. Tracks such as "Contrast" and "After the Rain" see the vocals ditched and some tasteful performances applied.
Black Lines is an impressive offering from Phrygian Gates, for a band with only two members they certainly delivered on this album.
Track list:
1. Massacre Designs
2. Sense Of Salvation
3. Maligne Tales
4. Contrast
5. Separate Lives
6. Death To Follow (The Revolution Of Mankind)
7. The Moon... Erotica (Tribute)
8. Black Lines
9. After The Rain