| The
Review |
What an odd creature this is, a progressive metal band,
part Emo, part Nu-Metal, part Marillion-ish Neo-Prog, part
symphonic prog that's ever so slightly reminiscent of the
Italian school. Sylvan's fifth release, Posthumous Silence
covers a broad array of styles and sounds. This is a good
thing. I'm speaking as an old crotchety proghole of the worst
kind, and all I can say that's bad about this music is that
they occasionally throw in AOR-ish anthemic choruses in 4/4
just to hook the head banging crowd.***
All the tunes on this disc segue into each other and
you need to listen to it in one sitting, please. It starts
with the effect laden "Eternity End", which turns into "Bequest
Of Tears" and "In Chains", which rocks out into excellent
prog fashion.***
"Bitter Symphony" and "Pane Of Truth" form an ominous
duo and are among the highest points of intensity that Sylvan
will reach on this disc. Bassist Sebastian Hardack and also
varied guitarist Kay Sohl play with bone crunching power during
these sections Typically Sylvan introduces a lengthy piece
with an atmospheric synth fest, followed by a brief emotional
ballad that segues into a rocking workout in the style of
Marylyn Manson or Tool. This disc even features one tune that
could easily make the morning VH1 Top Ten., "The Colors Changed",
which sports every element that rules pop rock right now,
Emo-vocals, McCartney-ish unaccompanied piano into, heartbreaking
lyrics (for a sixteen year old) and lush, dense orchestral
backing with crashing drums and anthemic guitar chords.***
There is a bit too much studio cleverness and too many
Marillion-ish heartfelt ballads for my particular taste, Even
though it's not my cup of tea, this is a triumph For Sylvan.
You just can't deny the great talent, professionalism and
the sheer hard work that goes into a disc like this. I won't
get the last three, but I'll definitely buy their next release.***
RATING: 4/5***
©Thomas Karr April 15, 2006
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