Dredg's
second release, El Cielo, is the best record that you're most
likely not listening to. In a period of music where most rock
bands just slap together albums and ship them to radio, it
is rare to see musicians striving to create a cohesive masterpiece.
Simply calling El Cielo a record could never do it justice.
Dredg has unleashed upon us a musical experience, a journey
that has rarely been seen since the days of Pink Floyd.
The
band's arrangement is simply stunning, with Dino Campanella's
drums and Drew Roulette's bass leading you through the music.
Dredg's music is anything but predictable. Take their track
'Sanzen' for instance, which builds up during its intro with
a fierce attack of guitar and drums only to breakdown into
a soothing, rolling melody that is simply a delight. Dredg's
songs all possess an epic quality, which can certainly be
felt during most of their choruses by the complex and powerful
guitars of Mark Engles. The soothing and melodic verses lead
into a passionate chorus where front man Gavin Hayes truly
unleashes his vocal talent. Lyrically profound and inspiring,
Gavin's vocal offerings are both soothing and uplifting feelings
of complete tranquility. Coming together with their vast range
of musical talents, which include the piano and mandolin,
Gavin's voice complements the music perfectly.
While
Dredg does not bring something incredibly innovative to the
table, El Cielo is an incredible record which is a welcome
deviation from the course of most modern rock acts. Instead
of being a record that's meant to hook the masses into catchy
melodies and familiar riffs, Dredg tap into their vast creativity
and talent to create a truly wonderful and awe-inspiring record.
This
is definitely one of the best records of 2002, and I highly
suggest that any fan of the musical arts check it out.
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