KINGCROW – Eidos
- by Matt Coe
- Posted on 15-08-2015
Progressive metal these days includes spacious passages as much as complexity, quirkiness, or technical prowess. Italian sextet Kingcrow on their sixth studio album "Eidos" create a distinct fusion of alternative sounds, still heavy and in the metal realm yet not afraid to inject melody, harmony, and contrast in unique ways. Acoustic guitars factor heavily into the culturally vibrant "Fading Out Part IV", while there’s a propulsive, rhythmic vibe throughout "At the Same Pace" – so everything from Tool to Pain of Salvation to King’s X comes to mind beyond expected progressive metal influences.
This hour plus record showcases an underlining confidence in exploring the shades of emotion not often drilled down in the genre – reflective and playful, while the vocals from Diego Marchesi come from an alternative/progressive rock template, often adding in multiple harmony background layers a la "90125" period Yes for instance in the stirring 8:16 title cut. "Eidos" is one of those albums that may not wow you upon initial exposure, taking successive playbacks to ensure full appreciation – but when you hit that sweet spot, the rewards aurally and visually go through the roof.