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These are the discs that keep me going most of the time. After hearing
30 discs worth of unholy black metal, popping in something Archetype is
truly refreshing. Residing in the Fates Warning/Dream Theater branch
of the metal tree, Hands of Time is an excellent example of what
progressive hard rock can offer us. The recording techniques
employed here give the album more of an oper air, jazzy feel, which may
be due to choice, or what the studio had to offer. Whatever the case, the
sound isn't compressed and flat, allowing the guitar lines to breath and
accentuating the dynamics with which the songs are created. The mastermind
behind this whole project is guitarist/songwriter/lyricist Chris Matyus, who
write some truly scientific stuff, but exploring many spheres of influence
and sound other than metal. Don't get me wrong, there are some scorching moments,
driven by the drummer Keith Zeigler's keen polyrhythmic sixth sense, where
they give the elders something to sweat over. But, my ultimate thoughts would
lead me to classify this as progressive metal, more similar to DT than Fates.
Chyle's voice may hold some of this, for while his voice is strong, it tends
to be the straw which tips the scales (to mix a couple metaphors). At any rate,
with outstanding musical performances on all fronts, at all times, this is
a good band to check out to hear what's going on in other areas of the
underground.
7 out of 10
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