Poor Genetic Material - Leap into fall - 2002
intro
Fourth CD released by this German band formed by Philip Griffiths (vocals), Stefan Glomb (guitars), Philipp Jaehne (keyboards), Dennis Sturm (bass), and Ludwig Benedek (drums). In a first stage, PGM´s music was oriented towards instrumental experimental music, with Stefan, Philipp and another keyboardist, Martin Lengsfeld. But in the lasts two CD, "Summerland" and "Leap into fall", and the inclusion of a vocalist, PGM´s music has changed and it is more song oriented. Unfortunately, and since I don´t know neither their instrumental music nor the previous sung album, I can´t bear comparisons. Anyway I would like to know the reasons of that change (but I can imagine them).
review
After two years writing for progVisions I suppose you know I am not the most suitable person for talking about song oriented progressive rock (I prefer American pomp) but, on the other hand, I think my opinions are more accurate in this case because I try to be objective with a music that it is not my cup of tea.
The music of PGM is elaborated Neoprogressive music with few instrumental moments of virtuosity. Anyway, the rhythm section behind Griffiths vocals and the ease when changing atmospheres are worthwhile. In the first track - "Rush of ages" (16:32)- there are good keyboards atmospheres and lots of good percussion and basses. The end of the song is nice, with acoustic guitars, keyboards and flute-like sounds. "Thin red line" (6:24) begins in an experimental way and quickly develops into a song with mysterious sounds. Pop music with progressive arrangements and a great acoustic guitar solo. "Star of Eden" (8:03) reminds me a lot to early Pallas albums and to Canadian band Saga. The continuous changes inside the song makes this song the best of the whole CD"Leap into fall" (5:06) begins with nice bass sounds and guitar arpeggios. Here I also find Pallas resemblance's, mainly in the refrain and the arrangements. Anyway this is not the best song of PGM because it is too poppy. On the other hand, "Antares" (9:32) is an anthem of the best neo progressive, with a sharp rhythm and a great and powerful guitar. In the middle of the song we can find an hypnotic keyboards a la The Doors and tearful guitars that reminds me to Pink Floyd´s interstellar trips (and other trips). "Fall" (2:10) is a beautiful - and inconsequential - epilogue with piano and vocals.
conclusion
PGM has an enormous merit... they reminds me to my two all-time most hated bands (Pallas and Saga) but I like this CD!!. Even Griffiths vocals (similar to Sadler, who is not my favorite singer) perfectly fits in the music. Well, I must admit this is not my favorite style, but the songs are well composed, the CD sounds great, and the listening is very pleasant.
A CD very, very recommended to Neoprogressive fans and for those who enjoy from time to time with quality songs. But in the same way it is a CD not allowed for progressive talibans and Crimsonheads.
Hmmm... How would this band sound when they played instrumental experimental music?