Name: DREAMSCAPE
Origin: Germany
Genre: Progressive Metal
Album: 5th Season
Summary: Try it.
The 4th 'proper' release by these notable German Prog Metal warriors can as well be a highlight for their career (so far). For those familiar with the band's previous effort, it should be stated that this specific album did offer a good chance of recognition - dunno if the band eventually got it - since it featured a great mix of the DREAM THEATER musicianship and the Northern Europe Prog Metal (e.g. PAGAN'S MIND) atmosphere. Now, in 5th Season the band seems to be more mature but also more powerful.
The production is crystal clear plus the mix brings all instruments - vocals included - in equal presence in the foreground. The 'mathematical' cover artwork is appropriate for this kinda style, preparing the listener for what's lurking inside. Meaning:
Fine melodic Progressive Metal you will get with 5th Season. Roland Stoll is a LaBrie 'clone', OK, but he - in a weird way - succeeds in not pleading guilty for his vocal abilities. He is high-pitched (but not irritating) while he uses his voice elegantly between straightforward and complex parts.
To extend, DREAMSCAPE's songwriting is rather complex, not mentioning the various tempo updates. It may take more than 5-6 auditions to start separating each track from the other in your mind, but from the very first time you'll listen to e.g. Fed Up With, Differenet or Phenomenon you'll be trapped in the band's ability to merge heaviness and keyboard-driven virtuosity in one with limited sweat. The guitars, indeed, are rather heavy where needed plus the soloing is more than good. The keys, on the other hand, contradict for the main role, dominating slower parts (piano included).
With limited of 'technical' knowledge for this specific genre, the review can as well wrap up here by proposing you occupy yourself with this impressive band; DREAMSCAPE have been around for nearly 15 years and - even this is only their 4th official studio release - I see a bright(er) future for them. Where complexity meets emotion, there stands 5th Season.