Metal in 2008 is an age in which aggression, speed and brutality rule the day. Even bands like Opeth, Rob Rock, Dream Theater, Kamelot, Rhapsody of Fire and so many other progressive and power metal bands sport faster riffs and include the occasional guest harsh vocalist and blast beat. Classic metal exists, and will never die, but the flavor of the last 5 years or so has definitely evolved into a harsh juggernaut eliminating many of the finer qualities that can best be experienced without double bass, 3 minute long solos, growling, or just sheer over the top speed. Some music is best served up slowed down with a pace that can allow its listener to catch their breath. The latest project from former Stream of Passion keyboardist/pianist, Alejandro Millán, entitled Hello Madness is one I wouldn’t even call metal in the traditional sense, but a project that many open minded metalheads can fully appreciate and admire.

Perhaps best described in relation to progressive rock mainstays Spock’s Beard, Hello Madness is not aggressive, raunchy, brutal, hardcore, heavy, sick or any other adjective one could use to describe extreme music, instead, Alejandro has crafted an album that is chill, atmospheric and just a tad off kilter. Harnessing progressive rock elements in a non confrontational manner is the biggest strongsuit of this outfit, never devolving into a foray of hard hitting riffs that virtually every progressive rock/metal band uses at one time or another. Hello Madness represents a pure, atmospheric journey that revels in allowing its listeners to absorb each and every detail, be it a melody or a vocal hook that stands out.

Perhaps Hello Madness’ greatest advantage, it’s complete ignorance of aggressive tones, could also be its greatest downfall. Personally, I found this album to be very interesting and mesmerizing, but those readers who are more in tune with heavier riffs and non-clean vocals, may have trouble understanding the true intentions of Alejandro’s project. However, if you can appreciate an album full of progressive rock and classic jazz moments with melancholic overtones, you need to jump on this album and give it a chance.

VERY GOOD

Top Tracks: Far Away, Hello Madness, Not Feeling

Similar Artists: Porcupine Tree, Spock’s Beard, Opeth

1. Hello Madness
2. Destiny Is Too Late
3. Change
4. My Stranger
5. Emotions
6. Once Again
7. Far Away
8. Stolen
9. Not Feeling
10. Here On My Lips
11. Light and Life After Dusk

Alejandro Millán – Keyboards, piano, vocals, concertina
Pablo Gonzalez – Bass
Enrique “Bugs” Gonzalez – Drums

The Note Garden Records
http://hellomadness.com
www.myspace.com/hellomadness

Review by CODY