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Fates Warning' s singer Ray Alder has been brooding for quite a while over this solo-escapade, "Engine" however is not a Fates Warning extension. The vocal sound and the manner of singing is typical for Ray Alder though. Musically, we can experience Ray from a more rough, yet not less emotional perspective. Compact, uncomplicated, very melodical and solid must have been his starting points during the writing process together with guitarist Bernie Versailles (ex- Agent Steel). No one will be surprised by the fact that the driving basswork and the production are coming from Joey Vera (Armored Saint, Fates Warning).
"Engine" reveals nine modern, versatile rock songs, a loose and damn pleasant listening experience. The power is hidden in the effective contrast between strong, dark, rough-edged guitar riffs, grooving rhythms (played by hardcore drummer Pete Parada of Face To Face), dreamy guitar tones and catchy vocal lines (with occasional effects). The solid opener "Monster" is a perfect example of all that. But also "Teach Me" (strong sawing guitar riff !), "Taste" and "I don't Need" are riff-oriented, swinging and direct. But the speed level regularly goes back down to a quieter level. In the progressive song "Falling Star" Ray literally sings the stars down from the sky and also the magnificent ballad "Bear Your Cross" and "Tree Of Life" are ravishing.
86 points out of 100 |
