Labrie, James: Static Impulse

James Labrie's name always appears on quality recordings. The Dream Theater vocalist's last solo release, 2005's Elements Of Persuasion, was and still is a real winner, and here with Static Impulse James does it once more.

So Static Impulse continues that trend of impressive albums but some will be surprised (I know I was caught off guard), or even put off by the addition of death metal screams this time around. Maybe JLB has taken quite the risk going down this path but hey it works. Those vocals aren't from James but drummer Peter Wildoer of Swedish band Darkane, but even if you aren't a fan of this darker popular style don't be too hasty to pass this one up. They aren't present on every track and even with those that do JLB still has plenty of input with his wonderful clean vocals.

Static Impulse sounds more aggressive than his previous album and will appeal to more than just the progressive metal fans; it's still melodic and progressive but also has quite a modern heavy sound that's very appealing. Also James has some very talented experienced musicians backing him up making quite the lethal line-up, including musical partner keyboard player Matt Guillory. Static Impulse contains expertly performed and well written catchy tunes and though this CD may commence with the swift energetic and heady blow of "One More Time" and enjoys a good serving of metal, there is some reprieve, like the final number which is a light track called "Coming Home" being one that really is quite touching. Also, the songs on Static Impulse aren't overly long, as there are no Dream Theater style extended musical passages- that's not what Static Impulse is about.

James's vocals on this release are simply fantastic. He sounds better than ever giving his all on Static Impulse, proving once more that he has plenty to offer besides fronting the progressive legends Dream Theater.

Track List:
1. One More Time
2. Jekyll Or Hyde
3. Mislead
4. Euphoric
5. Over The Edge
6. I Need You
7. Who You Think I Am
8. I Tried
9. Just Watch Me
10. This Is War
11. Superstar
12. Coming Home

Added: October 20th 2010
Reviewer: Scott Jessup
Score:
Related Link: Artist Website
Hits: 3764
Language: english

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