Vass/Katsionis – ‘Ethical Dilemma’: A melodic album!
Vass/Katsionis offer us a wonderful, melodic, progressive metal album. The duo teamed up for the record ‘Ethical Dilemma’.
By Dimitris (Bari) Polyzois
The Ethical Dilemma is the result of the collaboration between the singer of Terra 1nc0gnita, Billy Vass, and the multi-instrumentalist keyboardist/musician/producer, Bob Katsionis. The duo Vass/Katsionis presents some really beautiful tracks, which move within the boundaries of progressive metal. The record carries the stamp of Symmetric Records.
The original idea behind the collaboration
The idea that initially started out as a solo album for Vass, ended up becoming a progressive metal album. This record couldn't have come out without also bearing the name of the acclaimed Bob Katsionis. At the same time, joining this already impressive lineup came Bill DiBenedetto on drums and Τέλης Καυκάς (one of the best professional bassists in Greece), who grabbed the chance to start composing songs.
So the musical collaborators united their love for progressive metal music, each from their own distinct perspective. The composition and the result is a journey of 8 tracks, that's going to blow your mind and make you enjoy every single second of this collaboration!
About the music
The songs give depth to the time signature changes while being accompanied by powerful guitars, harmonic keys, rhythmic drums that betray tight synchronization, and bass that has plenty of lessons and skills to teach you about playing. "Ethical Dilemma" sets sail for the top and shows you it's not some slapdash job. This is an album that came to remind you how great progressive metal can be, when you know how to back it up properly!
All the musicians put in their own little contribution on this new release and it shows throughout the tracks, which stand out for their solid structure and interesting writing. All this gives the musicians the chance to show off their talent and win you over throughout the whole flow of music coming out of this album. They've found each other's footing and know how to create something. The result seems flawless, yet at the same time full of romanticism and passion!
Honestly, they deserve applause for the musical work they present to us on the album "Ethical Dilemma". Congratulations are also due to Billy Vass, who once again doesn't disappoint us with his musical temperament. With a unique vocal range of 4 octaves, Vass comes to blow us away! Melodic, dynamic, with strict tones and yet steady in his musical evolution and maturity, he gives 100%. He also shows that his collaboration with Bob Katsionis may have brought out the best in him! Listen to the record and you'll understand!
In conclusion
"Ethical Dilemma" by Vass/Katsionis, is a record that's going to charm you on many levels! It's here to show you its 'teeth' and transport you to the good old progressive metal, the way we used to love it and had missed so much!
I'll definitely be adding it to my collection and I'd suggest you do the same. It sets the bar very high and will surely be found among the albums of the year!
Big applause, guys!
