In the world of progressive metal, where guest appearances can be a band's ticket to fame, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle. But slq, a one-man project from Spain, is determined to carve out its own path. With an album titled Crown Shyness, slq aims to showcase its unique sound, blending elements of Tool, Leprous, and Porcupine Tree. But does it deliver? Let's delve into this review and find out.
A Musical Journey
slq, led by composer, vocalist, and guitarist César Parra Rojas, has assembled an impressive trio of session musicians: keyboardist Diego Tejeida (Haken, Temic), drummer Baard Kolstad (Leprous, Rendezvous Point), and bassist Nate Navarro (Devin Townsend, Porcupine Tree live). The album's title, Crown Shyness, is a nod to the natural phenomenon where trees create space between their branches, allowing sunlight to reach all parts of the forest. But will these musical giants give slq the room it needs to flourish?
The album's sound is a fusion of progressive metal and clean vocals, with a strong influence from Tool's riffing style and tom-focused drumming. The guest performers add a touch of Leprous, Haken, and Porcupine Tree to the mix, creating a unique but somewhat undefined sound. The moments that stand out are the exceptions to the general vibe, such as the piano-led salsa groove on 'A Chasm' and the blues rock instrumentals on 'A Deception'.
A Mixed Bag
Rojas' guitar work is serviceable, with tasty solos and well-crafted riffs, but it doesn't quite reach the standard of his session musicians. The real weak link, however, is Rojas' vocals. His lack of control over pitch and delivery often results in a meek and inconsistent performance. The boosting of his vocals in the mix only amplifies his vocal wobbles, leading to a homogenous sound throughout the album. The compositions, while progressive, lack a sense of destination, meandering through vibes and ideas without a clear vision.
Despite these shortcomings, there are moments of brilliance. The salsa section on 'A Chasm' is a highlight, showcasing the band's ability to lock in and create a cohesive sound. Tejeida's keyboard work is sublime, with skittering synths and emotive piano, while Kolstad's drumming adds off-kilter rhythm. The grandiose bluesy outro of 'A Deception' and the solo section on 'A Return' are also standouts, with Rojas' wah-drenched soloing and Tejeida's strident organ.
A Work in Progress
Crown Shyness feels like a work in progress, striving towards a vision that hasn't quite been realized. The addition of session musicians can't mask the obvious deficiencies in slq's sound. However, the album is still very listenable, with impressive flourishes and intriguing compositional swings. Rojas' dedication to crafting a unique sound is commendable, even if it won't be for everyone.
In conclusion, Crown Shyness is a mixed bag, with some standout moments and a general lack of cohesion. It's a promising start for slq, but the band needs to refine its sound and vision to truly stand out in the progressive metal scene. The album is a struggle, but it's one that's worth hearing, especially for fans of the genre.
Recommended Tracks: 'A Quest', 'A Chasm', 'A Return'
Similar Artists: Human By Nature, Inhalo
Final Verdict: 4/10
