Vass/Katsionis – “Cynical Silence”: A Progressive 90s album

“Cynical Silence” is a journey back in time, a journey into the progressive scene of the ‘90s, through a more contemporary musical path. A year after the release of their debut, Vass/Katsionis Vass/Katsionis return with their second full-length work. The album, titled “Cynical Silence”, continues along the path carved out by “Ethical Dilemma”. The record carries the signature of Symmetric Records.

With the same goal

On their second record too, the goal remains the same. “Cynical Silence” combines within it the band's nostalgia and love for the golden age of progressive metal, with the desire for new creation. The influences are filtered, and Vass/Katsionis Vass/Katsionis present a record that bridges contemporary sound with the ‘90s scene. On the new release we hear more ideas inspired by the contemporary progressive scene, while they also play a more active role in shaping the sound.

Vass/Katsionis represent and express progressive metal,

Vass/Katsionis Vass/Katsionis represent and express the progressive metal that bands like Fates Warning, Queensryche and Dream Theater established. There's a particular preference and weakness for the style of the first two. Also, the influence of Fates Warning's style is clear, and we can't fault them for it. Of course, also the more strictly technical style of Dream Theater. It comes to the surface and gets showcased specifically in the song that opens the record, “The End of Innocence”.

But beyond the progressive metal ideas that make up most of the album, there had to be some power metal elements on the record too. The most characteristic example is the song “Vengeance Is Mine”, which is not only one of the best on the record, but is also marked by the amazing vocal performance of Billy Vass.

With influences from before the 90s too

Finally, despite the fact that the record is mainly turned toward the ‘90s, that doesn't stop the band from also looking further back into the past. Specifically, the song “Cynical Silence” has an ’80s aesthetic that doesn't go unnoticed. “Invisible Thread” grabs attention with its synths and bassline, but also with ‘70s elements that weave in and colour the sound beautifully.

There's nothing else left for me to say. The record has been out for a few months now, so if you haven't heard it already, don't wait any longer. Truly, “Cynical Silence” is an outstanding domestic record.