Mechanical Man - Mechanical Man (2015)
Russian progressive/melodic band Mechanical Man have been active since 2012, and after 2013’s EP “White Out” and last year’s single “Madhouse,” Muscovites are back this year with their full-length debut titled “Mechanical Man.” It didn\'t take much for this album to become absolute highlight of the year so far, and thanks to the folks from Prog Sphere PR team who sent this record to me, I have a strong contender for the best release of 2015.
Mechanical Man is comprised of Alexey Efimov on vocals, Sergey Danilov on guitars, Alexandr Litoshenko on bass, Evgeniy Komarov on keyboards, and Vitaliy Ostrovenko on drums. Comparing “Mechanical Man” to the music presented with “White Out” and “Madhouse,” it’s evident that the full-length release succeeds in bringing new elements into the band’s repertoire, although a couple of songs from the mentioned two releases find its places on the album.
“Mechanical Man” starts with the self-titled song, a song that immediately grabs you by the throat, combining Dream Theater styled structures with powerful vocals, recognisable guitar riffs and catchy rhythm section. “White Out” continues in the same theatrical style, before beautifully emotional “Wonderful World” kicks in. A song which has potential to become one of the greatest hits in the future, and one of the must-include compositions on an upcoming “best of” compilation album.
That Mechanical Man are in the tip-top form with the self-titled album shows the following “Madhouse.” There is aggression, melodic hooks and rhythmic riffwork that scream for mass appeal, and a signature sound that indicates this band knows what they want.
The album continues with “Queen of the Night,” a more symphonic composition with added power metal motives. “Will of Fate” is a mid-tempo ballad built very well for the singalong live performances. “Nightmare Master” is a fine up-tempo piece; powerful and filled with strong riffs. A good example of the band’s work that shows the intensity and craftsmanship. The closing “Dr. Frankenstein” is an over nine minutes long epic that changes tempo from fast to slow. It absolutely summaries the current position of the band and their style.
It could be easily said that “Mechanical Man” is the result of old-new ideas. This is an album that grows with each listen, and that’s something that can be said only for great records.
https://www.facebook.com/mechanicalmanband
http://mechanicalmancrew.bandcamp.com
