Greek prog newcomers, Fading Echoes (interview here), stand out in the progressive metal scene for being capable of balancing their undeniably impressive musicianship and sky-high song and lyric-writing ambitions with the commitment to serving a song’s best interest, not their own individual instrumental prowess. More unique yet is their heavy reliance on heavy/power metal on the full-length debut Shadow of Another—often one of the genre’s most predictable and repetitive styles—for much of their sonic stamp, as they effortlessly integrate its best elements into their inventive compositions.
Shadow of Another fleshes out what experiments within the genre had tarnished into a strong and cohesive set from start to finish. Singer/bassist Dimitris Stratikis skillfully avoids the typical operatic flourishes common among many of his peers, yet his vocal range remains impressive. He delivers tender, emotive melodies—especially on the haunting “The Stages of Grief, Pt. 3 – Bargaining”—and explosive, intense moments, as heard on the fierce “The Stages of Grief, Pt. 2 – Anger.”
Petros Printezis and guest contributor Jim Politis’ frequently beautiful solos often become the lasting centerpieces of album highlights such as “The Stages of Grief, Pt. 5 – Acceptance,” which also features renowned singer Zak Stevens of Savatage fame. Keyboards and piano played by Vasilis Sarou are also an ever-present ingredient of the band’s sound, but never overwhelm the songs, which retain a crushingly focused, heavy metal sheen at all times.
The center-piece of the album is a five-track suite “The Stages of Grief,” which sees Fading Echoes exploring different stages of grief, “from the initial shock and denial to the eventual acceptance and resolution.”
The music on Shadow of Another is very strong, with instrumentation that adds to the storyline. At times it emphasizes, creates drama, and builds tension. The overall picture is that of a very well-crafted concept album that certainly should please fans of progressive metal.
For more about Fading Echoes visit the band’s website. Follow the band on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Shadow of Another is available on Bandcamp.
The music on "Shadow of Another" is very strong, with instrumentation that adds to the storyline.
