Remnant
Untitled release
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
Here's a 9-song tape that shows off more energy and passion than their one cut on "Underground Metal 2". The production quality is a little lame due to its 4-track limitations, but I was overall impressed by the tape. It shows a good view of the band and all their diversity. They go from progressive rockers, like "Can't You See", to tender ballads, like "Skin Deep". Some of the songs lack a cohesive direction, such as the super-long instrumental, "Karen", but the songwriting does show an ability to come up with a good hook. The performance on most of the faster tunes exhibit lots of energy. The tape starts off with plenty of humor, as a phony dj anounces the easy-going format to be played. "Victory Child" shows lots of vocal harmonies, which come off pretty good. "Run From the Darkness" has a good hook, but the choral chant of "Run" suffered a lot in the production. "You Give Me a Reason" has some hot singin' on it and some exceptional double leads of the melodic nature. "Sea of Crystal", which shows the current stylistic direction of the band, has a very progressive rhythm pulsating behind the upfront, melodic vocals. Overall, Remnant shows lots of promise. They're definitely a band to keep an eye on. This is a thumbs up demo. To order, send $6 to: Tim Kyle, 628 Cherokee #2, Kalamazoo MI 49007. (Make checks payable to Tim Kyle).