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MusikZirkus |
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FeedForward - Barefoot & Naked
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| FeedForward calls itself a rock formation from the neighbouring Netherlands. Already in 2002 the quintet was founded, currently consisting of singer Biejanka, guitarist Mario, bass player Jan, drummer (and background vocalist) Pi and keyboard player job. In the six years of its existence, the five have developed their own style, which they themselves refer to as a mix of progressive rock and metal melodic call. The debut album "Barefoot & Naked" was already released in 2006 and enters the market again as a re-release on 13.05.2008 by Rusty Cage Records. |
| The including booklet of twelf pages includes all lyrics of the album, but unfortunately contains no further details about the band. "Fade Away", the opening song immediately shows the melodic and powerful way in which FeedForward embraces Prog Metal. Although guitars and drums are very much in the foreground and Biejanka's voice is rather mixed in the background, it is immediately evident that she has an expressive voice. The piece can convince by great, powerful solos, as well as a catchy melody. With this first song they score points with me already. |
| In "Run The Race" Biejanka's voice - especially in the chorus – reaches the proximity of Lana Lane (and resemblances to Lana Lane can also be heard in other parts). However, the piece is much more powerful is the case with the American woman. Feedforward also proves their quiet side with the very sensitive ballad "Crossing The Line". A wonderful melody is the basis of this piece. Later on in this eight minutes piece it also turns out powerful. |
| A piano line, garnished with a guitar solo, let the song "Innocence" also appear ballad-like at first, but later it will turn out poppy / rocking / proggy. In this piece really a number of styles are evident. Fast guitar licks unleash the metal in "143". Pi on drums reminds slightly of Neil Peart of Rush. And "Our Sky (For One Time)" is the last ballad on the CD, when Biejanka is accompanied only by piano. |
| In contrast hard metal riffs and pounding drums open "Before I Leave". Hard parts are interleaved with soft passages. "Silent" begins very electronically, but is augmented by hard, rammstein-like guitar riffs. This piece is not quite my cup of tea, since it doesn’t sound very coherent to me. Here the quintet packed too much in five minutes for my taste. |
| A real ear catcher for me is the only instrumental "Moving", which starts with a very beautiful guitar line that sounds very proggy with an oriental touch. Similarities to RPWL's "Try To Kiss The Sun" have come to my mind. After a few minutes metal riffs are added to this piece, but it fits very well. "Stop To Think" then ends this successful debut. This conclusive title shines through a catchy melody and the solos should also not be missed. |
| "Barefoot & Naked" has turned out a very good debut album from the dutchmen, and they can compete with major names such as Dream Theater. Fans of melodic prog metal should definitely listen to the album, which they will certainly appreciate. But all other rock fans should give the band a chance, because the hardness is clearly limited. |
| View source at http://www.musikzirkus-magazin.de/dateien/Pages/CD_Kritiken/rock/feed_forward_barfoot_and_naked.htm |
