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Frantic Bleep is
a new band from Norway and "The
Sense Apparatus" is their debut
CD. Prior to this they had only the
demo-CD "Fluctuadmission",
which lead them to signing a contract
with the U.S. based The End Record
(another good signing for T.E.R.).
I found this band
when I followed the traces of Paul
Mozart Bjørke (vocals, bass),
who is member of Madder Mortem (this
is another chapter that we will open
in a few months, when their new album
will be released). I didn't know what
to expect. I mean I knew that this
was about some kind of progressive
music, but I could know exactly what.
Even now, after numerous listening
sessions, I still can't comprehend
the width and depth of their music.
It is very difficult listening, which
claims for your ultimate concentration.
I cannot resemble their music to some
other's band and I consider that they
are unique in the way Cynic or Psychotic
Waltz were for their age. To me, this
is one of the best debuts ever. A
very mature record, which is so complex
that none description will be enough
to cover its multi-dimensional nature.
Their music is very passionate and
intense. Do not expect something ordinary
or some technocratic band that performs
clinically their compositions. "The
Sense Apparatus" is a dramatic
exposition of soul and mind, thanks
to Paul Mozart Bjørke's vocal
lines, his countless transitions among
various modes (low tuned, somber,
angered etc) and the adventurous compositions
of Patrick Scantlebury (guitars, synth).
I cannot distinguish any song, simply
because each one of them is so different
from the rest. Aggressive thrashy
riffs are shifting with piano melodies
and then to swirling riffs that every
prog-metal metal band would jealous.
Patrick Scantlebury is also responsible
for the production and despite his
young age it seems that he knows better
than anyone how the music of his band
should sound. The whole package is
appealing from the very first moment
thanks to the astounding artwork of
Christian Ruud. Another meaningful
credit (especially for those who are
aware of this divine voice) is that
Agnete M. Kirkevaag from Madder Mortem
is contributing with some background
vocals.
As a conclusion I
would like to note that, even in metal,
the industry of clones prevails (be
it NWOSDM, be it Power Metal, be it
Black it's all the same). But we still
have some alternatives. I suggest
strongly Frantic Bleep to all those
who are uneasy and worried, who seek
for something qualitative.
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