In the world of progressive metal, where innovation and collaboration often reign supreme, the debut album "Crown Shyness" by slq presents an intriguing tale of ambition and artistic vision. This project, spearheaded by César Parra Rojas, showcases an ambitious attempt to blend diverse musical influences and create something unique. However, as we delve into the review, it becomes evident that the journey towards this vision is fraught with challenges and inconsistencies.
The All-Star Collaboration
One of the most striking aspects of "Crown Shyness" is the lineup of guest musicians. Rojas has managed to assemble a trio of progressive music's elite: Diego Tejeida, Baard Kolstad, and Nate Navarro. This is no small feat, and it immediately raises expectations for the album's quality. The question arises: Can Rojas' vision stand up to the talent and experience of these seasoned musicians?
A Primordial Sound
The album's sound, while drawing heavily from Tool's influence, feels like a work in progress. It's as if the band is still exploring its identity, resulting in a somewhat undefined prog metal experience. The moments that shine through are those that deviate from the norm, like the unexpected salsa groove or the blues rock instrumentals. Rojas' guitar solos provide some highlights, but his riffs often lack originality. The compositions, though progressive, seem to lack a clear direction, meandering through ideas rather than presenting a cohesive vision.
The Weakest Link
A significant drawback of "Crown Shyness" is Rojas' vocals. Despite his best efforts, his vocal delivery falls short, lacking the control and impact needed to truly shine. This weakness is exacerbated by the vocal production, which amplifies any imperfections. As a result, the album's homogeneity suffers, with the same vocal issues recurring throughout.
Micro-Level Enjoyment
Despite its flaws, "Crown Shyness" offers moments of brilliance. When the performers synchronize, slq delivers impressive results. The salsa section in "A Chasm" and the guitar solo in "A Delusion" are standouts. Tejeida's keyboard work adds a layer of complexity and emotion, while Kolstad's rhythmic experimentation keeps things interesting. However, these highlights are few and far between, and the album often feels like a struggle to maintain interest.
Striving for Clarity
"Crown Shyness" feels like a record in transition, striving for a vision that is yet to fully materialize. While the addition of talented session musicians adds depth, it cannot mask the underlying deficiencies. That being said, the album has its merits, particularly in the instrumental department, where Rojas' vision comes to life with some impressive moments. It's a record that won't appeal to everyone, but it showcases the potential for growth and improvement.
Final Thoughts
With a score of 4/10, "Crown Shyness" leaves a mixed impression. It's a brave attempt at creating something unique, but it falls short of its ambitious goals. The collaboration with top-tier musicians is a highlight, but the album's inconsistencies and lack of direction hinder its overall impact. For fans of progressive metal, it offers glimpses of brilliance, but it's a journey that requires patience and an open mind. Perhaps with time and refinement, slq can emerge from the underbrush and truly shine.
