The Israeli Metal scene isn't very big, and its Progressive Metal share is even smaller. Even still, some names are well-known in many places, and DISTORTED HARMONY are rightfully lauded.

DISTORTED HARMONY's music is complex and highly emotional, as can be expected from the genre, and delivered very well. Although it may take a while for some to get used to the "whiny" vocals of the group's singer, Misha, I personally think he delivers the lyrics well and is a fine front-man. I recall having difficulty getting used to DREAM THEATER's James LaBrie's voice, and after I had, I couldn't imagine anyone doing it better.
 

DISTORTED HARMONY do sound a lot like DREAM THEATER – and that's a good thing. Complex guitar pieces, emotional singing, lots of keyboard and pronounced drum work, all fit in wonderfully. Unlike DREAM THEATER, DISTORTED HARMONY also dabble in some heavier stuff, incorporating strong guitar riffs and drumming, and Misha's voice can take on a very dark tone.  This is what I like about Progressive Metal – it's rarely boring. DISTORTED HARMONY do not only sound good, but they take you on a journey, and their performance at the Barby club celebrating their new release "Chain Reaction", was such a journey.

Since the music is highly technical, having good sound is important. DISTORTED HARMONY did not disappoint, and I have already mentioned the Barby's improved acoustics. I could hear the singer very well, whilst not missing the careful bass work – and the drums did not drown everything, as they sometimes do.
 

Another important technical aspect was the lighting – the stage had a wall with lamps placed in vertical lines, which were then let and set off according to the rhythm. It may not sound like much, but it helped set the atmosphere. What I did not like, however, was the fact most of the light, most of the time, was given to the band's vocalist, leaving most of the other band members in the dark, especially the keyboardist and the drummer.

As aforementioned, the band's technical proficiency is high and I could not spot many slip-ups when it came to the music, if any at all. The band's front-man and vocalist made sure to engage the audience, spoken to them and with them, and made the whole affair some more personal and intimate. I liked that – I always feel like it's that added value you get when you come to live performances. Otherwise, I could've listened to the music at home, in better quality and without having to go anywhere.
 

This performance was dedicated mostly to the new "Chain Reaction". I hope they will continue to produce more – I like their style of presenting their craft and material. If you're ever in the neighborhood or they're in yours, give them a listen.