This self-released album by the Czech progressive metal ensemble Neurotic Machinery is a rather sharp and focused effort comprised of nine tracks that weave and blend different elements relating to melodic death metal, experimental rock, and progressive music together.

 

Words such as technical, disciplined, and musically talented come to mind whenever I spin this disc, but unfortunately, "Cognitive Dissonance" never really manages to get my rocks up in the air. These guys know their way around their instruments and there are some really good melodies and interesting arrangements present on the album, but it also sounds a little clinical and lacks warmth, passion, and atmosphere.

 

The album never really takes off and explodes into something truly captivating, but that is not to say that it is not varied and cleverly written. Sometimes it is fierce, sometimes it is bleak, but the bottomline is that it lacks individuality, emotion, and catchiness. It might be worth checking out if you are heavily into progressive metal, though.

 

https://www.facebook.com/neuroticmachinery/