Leprous - Bilateral (2011)

©Inside Out 

Norway

Oh boy.  Here’s a good one (oops! spoiler alert).  For those who do not wish to read any further, here’s a brief synopsis.

• Progressive Rock/Metal
  
• Magnificent blending of genres.
  
• Vast array of vocal presentation/influences.
  
• Ridiculously impressive musicianship without that typical boredom factor that so many other artists of this calibre tend to don upon listeners.
  

For the rest of you devoted readers, it’s difficult to know where to start with this album from these young talented Norwegians.  Surprisingly they’ve managed to evade my prog-sponge ears.  This being their third full length release, Bilateral does nothing more than baffle as to how the band will surpass such a gem.

Each track is diverse and intensely interesting, brimming with an absolutely seamless fusion of a multitude of musical genres.  Where bands like Opeth make great use of doing this with in their music, distinguishably separating genres from one another, Leprous some how manage to craft such a sound to be performed as one, thus coming off as entirely original yet comforting to new and seasoned listeners. At times you'll question yourself, "Isn't this how it was originally is supposed to sound?"  You’ll swear that off-timed Mesuggah-like riffs could only be followed by an expected Meshuggah-like screams and roars.  Rather, you’ll get the sublime vocal meltdown of such as James Labrie (Dream Theater), Jared Leto (30 Seconds To Mars), Michael Eriksen (Circus Maximus), James Maynard (Tool), Gavin Hayes (Dredg) and Jasper Steverlinck (Arid; Guilt Machine) with reminiscent harmonies from the likes of Arcturus, Devin Townsend, Porcupine Tree, Protest the Hero, Pink Floyd and Sieges Even, that work exceptionally well.

Oft times with progressive music, there comes a point when it seems some bands just play to show off their skills, leaving the listener with raised eyebrows and eventually a lot of boredom.  Not here.  The sounds employed by each musician's performance are a true wonder towards the listeners interest.  It can be downright catchy to borderline mesmerizing.  Songs can be heavy and technically brutal(ish) (ex. Waste of Air) to fragile and elegant (ex. Mb. Indefferentia).  The same goes with the pairing of vocals that can range from delicately lulling to outright screams.  Big deal, right?  Think again.  All are done with a perfectly tasteful balance far from any other band I’ve ever heard.

Listen for yourself. Leporous’s release Bilateral is a must hear, must have!  If you’ve ever considered yourself a fan of ‘good music’ or you are just looking to establish a starting point,  do not let this album pass.

- Joel

Official website