Jean-Marc Perc, based in Vienna / Austria has been releasing instrumental progressive music under the alias "THE LAST CELL" since 2018. Captivated by guitar from an early age as nine later led to his Jazz and Popular Music studies on the Vienna Music Institute (2010). Inspired by other progressive bands such as I BUILT THE SKY, PLINI, and INTERVALS, he released his debut EP "Nautilus" in March 2018 and as a result his project was born. The second half of 2020 marks a new Milestone for THE LAST CELL, as the third and long anticipated EP "Veter" will be released on the 30th October. Therefore, continuing telling the story about life, uncertainty and the end of it all, in a monumental way. The EP contains four tracks.

"Turbine" leads off the album. Melody hits you from the opening notes. I've reviewed some of Jean-Marc's earlier Eps, and this was something that was often just a bit to subtle. But, it's there in full display, as is his dexterous guitar skills and sense of structure. Those dual harmonic leads really make the melody shine. I also love his sense of experimentation here...the guitars go many different directions but always keep the core of the song in mind. "Neon 18,2" opens with soft guitars and a sense something mysterious. When the main riff hits, it's choppy and Djenty. The leads over top are nicely done, running in line with the melody and so skillful. He begins to build these wonderful layers as well. Those soft bells return towards the end, giving you a sense of warmth and comfort.

"Veter" has a hastier pace, with staccato rhythm guitars and lead runs that can start and stop on a dime. This song in particular definitely has PLINI vibes for me. He runs through a bit of a darker section, and returns clean on the other side, with a series of guitar runs that are tight and melodic. It crescendos towards the end, and the ends on a darker vibe. "Windtemple" opens with a warmer, more alluring charm. The rhythm section is a bit somber, with bass, drums and guitars working in this tight symmetry, and the leads over the top run perfectly with the melody and strong timing. It builds into this coiled snake, awaiting his prey, then levels off to this slower, more breathable melody. It changes tone again, with an air of mystery. Towards the end, the sound drops to just some pretty ambiance with a clock ticking, and the grand finale is pure melodic bliss.

What Jean-Marc does so well as a musician, and particularly on "Veter" is showcase his songwriting talents while building a strong foundation first. As I mentioned before, I've reviewed his last two works as well, and it's nice to hear some growth as he finds his way in the industry. His compositions are so tightly structured that you could not squeeze a dime in between them, yet when he needs to let them breathe a bit, he does. This is often something that many seasoned musicians are not really able to pull off, but Jean-Marc does with his own style. Add in these wonderful moments of melody, and you have an absolute recipe for success. "Veter" is an outstanding EP if instrumental Progressive music, so don't waste any more time and grab it up!https://thelastcell.bandcamp.com/