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Pallas, Wearewhoweare, 2014

pallas - wearewhowearePallas have been around for quite a while and in my humble opinion always deliver interesting albums. This is the second with singer Paul Mackie, who replaced personal favourite Alan Reed in 2010. Paul also has a good voice and is able to vary a lot, and does nice harmonies as well, so no complaints! The biggest change I see in this release however, is regarding the artwork. Especially people who already are afraid of clowns will find this ehhh interesting? Just kidding, this is very intriguing work and surely adds to the whole package!

The music of Pallas is as always (neo) progressive rock with equal parts of keyboards and guitar. Always succeeding in creating moody music, rich in dynamics and melody, and this album is no exception. A funny thing happened when I heard Dominion, somehow it sometimes reminded me of Muse! Which is probably testament of the prog vibes from them šŸ™‚ And I am sure Pallas wouldn’t mind selling the same numbers…

Why the band went for the Indiegogo route I don’t know, maybe that they wanted to gain more control over the result? But going indie did not have an impact on quality. This is vintage and solid Pallas so anyone familiar with the band should be able to enjoy this as well. And if you do not know them but like prog, this is a band you ought to discover!

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Pallas, XXV, 2011

pallas - xxv

With new guy Paul Mackie behind the microphone (and really liking Alan ReedĀ“s singing) I was curious about this new Pallas record. Probably all people into progressive rock are familiar with the band and their version of this genreĀ“s music. I really dig their brand: melodic, adventurous arrangements on keyboards, riffing from bass and guitar that can go anywhere, even in sometimes more heavy territory, and one of the better drummers in the ranks.

So did the change of singer bring something new to the table? Well yes and no. It is obviously Pallas, still refining their sound and refusing to stand still. Nice touch this time are more soundscape like pieces likeĀ  Something In The Deep, really spooky! That approach creates a whole lot of room to breathe and they work with that expertly.
And yes Paul Mackie is not Alan Reed. But I think that is a wise move. Let him find his own ground within the band, no problem. He is a good and convincing singer and not afraid to experiment with effects.

So after a couple of spins I can confirm this is another strong record for the gents and one that is still growing on me. And ainĀ“t that a sign for greatness? And with a cover and booklet that is updating artwork from old, transforming it to fit this sci-fi fable, they proof they know where they are coming from, but are still looking ahead. Keep on moving!

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