Martigan – Distant Monsters (Progressive Promotion records PPRCD036, 2015)
The first two tracks of this album would lead you to believe that Martigan is strictly a prog metal band. Throughout “Theodor’s Walls”, and “Lion,” the band uses the tired chugga chugga of heavy metal. However, on “Lion” guitarist Björn Bisch finally delivers the goods, by playing a superb electric guitar solo.
On track 3, “Simplicius”, Martigan finally starts to show its true progressive rock side with expressive vocals inspired by Fish and other second generation prog rock singers and another great epic guitar solo.
“Complicius,” track 4, is even better, with outstanding vocals and creative drum work that progresses very nicely into an instrumental section where Björn Bisch’ guitar stands out once more.
The longest track on the album is “The Lake,” where you get a well balanced mix of vocals and remarkable instrumental work spearheaded by the guitar that takes you into an epic grand finale.
Track 6, “On Tiptoe,” has a dreamy and cinematic nature with notable vocal work, light percussion and plenty of symphonic keyboards.
“Fire on the pier” has echoes of Genesis and Pendragon, with more delectable guitar goodness.
The albums ends with an anthemic song titled “Take me or leave me.”
The lineup includes Kai Marckwordt on lead and backing vocals and guitar; Oliver Rebhan on keyboards and backing vocals; Alex Bisch on drums and backing vocals; Björn Bisch on guitars and ebow; and Mario Koch on bass and clarinet.
Buy Distant Monster in the Americas and rest of the world
Buy Distant Monsters in Europe