乐队列表 Heavy Metal A Deeper Dreed Masquerade

A Deeper Dreed was formed in early 2010 and in just a year later, they are prepared to release their debut EP, Masquerade. Often praised for their energetic yet melodic live performances, it was therefore interesting to see how well they fare for their studio recordings.

The album starts off with the title track, Masquerade, with a weak keyboard melody before breaking out into a riff somewhat reminiscent of Singapore's Age of Sinfonia, minus the symphonic elements. However, the band manages to salvage their music as drummer Cameron drives the band with his energetic double bass-pedalled drumming, right from the start of the EP. Shaun's vocals break through and soar high above the heavy guitar riffs, providing a stark contrast in the music, and to good effect as well. He also attempts to provide some cinematic effect, such as through the usage of laughters towards the end of Masquerade, despite the slight awkwardness.

At times the music resembles progressive metal bands such as Dream Theater, such as the riffing on The Cell, with the progressive riff, the technical drumming and even Shaun's vocals almost reminding listeners of a less whining version of James LaBrie, especially at parts where he attempts to hit the higher notes, while retaining the energy and power in his voice. However, the song starts to falter at the guitar solo, especially towards the end of the solo where it feels as if the guitarists are struggling to hit the final notes. Bassist Simon also rarely gets to shine, as the bass is mostly drowned out and even when audible, are playing predictable lines with hardly any improvisation.

On songs such as Glass to Sand, there are also awkward moments that spoil the mood already set up by the band. However, on this same track the band also displays their innovation on this song through vocalist Shaun's usage of vocal effects. The heavy riffs present are also reminiscent of Dream Theater's Train of Thought era, progressive and aggressive yet melodic at the same time. The band then brings in their more extreme metal influences on Of Me, with melodic death metal inspired guitar lines and riffing on the song, adding a unique touch to their brand of melodic heavy metal. This is one song that is sure to start mosh pits on live performances, and shows how A Deeper Dreed ensures that things are kept interesting throughout the EP.

As the first release of the band, Masquerade is a poor representation of what the band is capable of. However, it would certainly be interesting to see how the band grows over time as potential can definitely be seen in each of the individuals that make up the band.