Wastefall - Self-Exile
Sensory - SR3031 - 2006
By Brandon Strader
If you're a fan of greek vocalizing, you'll love the intro to
Wastefall's
Self-Exile. The vibes emitting from the introduction track are powerful in creating the feeling that you're forsaken in a desert somewhere... The artwork also seems to feature plenty of sandy colors that helps to add to the desert-like imagery.
Self-Exile has been recommended for fans of
Pain of Salvation and
Nevermore, and the mixture of these two bands apparent within the sound of
Wastefall and actually sounds very unique and entertaining! Most of the
Pain of Salvation sound rests within the vocalist's performance, however. It's a great vocal performance throughout
Self-Exile indeed, very
Daniel Gildenlöw-ish. Now that you mention it, there seem to be a lot of
Gildenlöw immitators lately! This guy does it fairly well, but not the best I've ever heard.
Wastefall will surprise the listener by entering a jazzy jam, or a middle-eastern arrangement (hey, these guys are from Greece by the way) amongst their progressive metal stylings. They never actually play anything too similar to
Nevermore and the vocalist, like earlier stated, really does not sound or sing in a style similar to that of
Warrel Dane so people looking for another
Nevermore will not find it here!
Wastefall succeeds in an area that progressive metal groups usually do succeed in: making complex, entertaining
and emotional music that will keep you begging for more. Each song is distinct with it's own sound and style and, overall, the material is very diverse.
Self-Exile, to be released on June 6th, 2006 (Gasp!) is a very worthwhile endeavor and will keep you entertained for a long while. Apparently 6/6/06 release dates aren't limited to black metal, so make sure to pick this one up when it is released in a few days. Bring holy water.
9/10
UM’s Review Rating Scale
Official Wastefall Website
Official Sensory Website
