From their EPK, “ADVOCACY was formed in Aarhus, Denmark in the Spring of 2015 with influences from Metal, Jazz, and Progressive Rock. The band’s music is multi-faceted with unorthodox time signatures, three-part vocal harmonies, and compositions that take the listener on a musical journey through wide, dynamic levels and complex instrumentation. The lyrical themes are based on existentialism, societal issues, and the stormy depths of the human mind.” The album has eight songs.

The title track is first. Charming piano notes turn to keyboards, and the sound is entrancing. Some symphonic elements mix in along with Classical guitar runs, and the band seems intent on throwing in everything but the kitchen sink. For me, it’s as if SAVATAGE had a baby with SEVENTH WONDER. “Prayer for the Reckless” has thick bass guitar notes that echo with heavy effects, and the vocal harmonies are as strong as the Progressive elements. As with many Progressive bands, they flirt with pretentiousness, especially with all of the key changes, and the band is walking the fine line between grandiose and hollow. “Leap of Faith” hears that flirtation continue. There is no doubt that these are exquisite musicians, but one could question the uncertain direction they are exploring. I can’t decide on the effect of the harsh vocals either.

“Star Formation” was the first video released ahead of the album. It begins sort of unassuming and gentle, before some more ardent sounds slide in. They retreat, replaced by smooth vocal harmonies and some fast and loose qualities. At times, it seems the band is going to unravel, but somehow, they hold it together, albeit barely. “Cut Loose” is another song that almost looses direction. Just after the half-way mark on the album, and the flirtation with this is nearly realized. At this point, I have to question what are the band’s intentions? The layered vocal harmonies seem to be the trademark on the album, but the development of melody suffers…at least, easily accessible melodies that is. “Deranged” is still another questionably odd song. As a long time fan of Progressive music, these chord progressions and melodies are hard to swallow, and I wonder if I am missing the point. But they are so damn close.

“Interlude” is just that…a short pause. “Unnamed” closes the album, and I am finding it very difficult to put into succinct words what I am listening to. It has the most accessible melodies of the entire album. Overall, of all the complex elements on the album, the bass work and vocal harmonies might be the most pronounced. But the melodies are just too far out of my grasping hands. The band brings every cooking utensil to the table that they can get their hands on, but each one pulls the sounds further apart. Cohesion is what is lacking for me, but not the band’s musicianship. Still, they bring a sound that I haven’t heard before, and they are one turn away from putting the pieces together. I would look forward to what else they might have in the future.