Instrumental music can be boring for many fans, because the ethereal atmosphere of the music. And it's sometimes as technical as it can that can make us, mere mortal listeners of music, sleep a snoring sleep. Don't get me wrong, but nowadays, people are not so directly linked to virtuous demonstrations of musical technique or to intricate instrumentals. But there are times when instrumental albums really can be great and catch us by our ears. And let me tell you, Art Against Agony from Germany, is really amazing, and their newest release, an EP “Russian Tales" is astonishing.
Fusing elements from Metal, Classic Music, Jazz, Rock and Fusion, their music is heavy and tender, with a giant technical level and intricate melodies, sounding classical and complex, but with very good taste. But if you're used to Prog Metal or Progressive Rock, or you are an old listener of music, the comprehension of the work can be a bit more easier. It's not easy to understand, but the best albums on Metal and Rock history weren't so easy as well.
The EP's production is extremely fine. Yes, fine. Because to record, mix and master a band like this is a very hard work, due the need of having a level of clearness and weight that is above common Metal bands due their musical complexity.
With average song length of 4:30 minutes, Art Against Agony offer five diverse tracks with “Russian Tales.” I dare to name the “inner” three as the absolute highlights here. The trio of “Nothing to Declare,” “Tea for the Dragon,” and “Coffee for the Queen” represent a festival of broken tempos, very good Jazz insight, interesting riff work and solos, and inspiring rhythm section.
“Russian Tales” is a bit strange album sometimes, and hard to understand for common Metal fans, but an excellent experience for all. It’s a splendid brain exercise.
Grab a copy here.
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