SHEAR – Katharsis
- Posted on 08-03-2014
The second album "Katharsis" from Finnish sextet Shear is a multi-layered aural journey that traverses many sub-facets of the metal world. Brimming with melodic charm, the 11 tracks on here run up and down the flagpole from semi-progressive/ symphonic metal through the intriguing "Heaven into Hell", an almost Symphony X-like "Last Warning" to semi-acoustic meets electric theatrical balladry for "I Care" and almost melodic power/death fare with "Not Myself".
Alexa Leroux comes from a pop meets soaring Pink vocal range – nary a trace of metal within those pipes, but there’s little doubt she can wail on "For the Restless" or sinister "Home". Variety appears to be the spice that keeps Shear away from any particular definitive genre – and this could bode well in terms of touring opportunities. Subtle dynamic shifts where churning electric guitars come in and out of the instrumental/verse action gives the keyboards and rhythm section proper illumination on vibrant closer "Turmoil" – and I especially smile at the semi-djent maneuver during the bridge that allows Alexa to shine in the upper register.
2012’s "Breaking the Stillness" established Shear as a newcomer to be reckoned with, and I feel "Katharsis" is another step in the right direction for the band in terms of originality and proper execution. Employing the right amount of intricacy while writing logical hooks and melodies, this should appeal to the far reaches of the gothic, symphonic, and melodic power crowds.
www.facebook.com/ShearOfficial