 CIRCLE
II CIRCLE
Watching in Silence
AMF Records 2003
www.circle2circle.net
What’s the 4-1-1?
Zak Stevens has returned to the rock music scene after a three year absence.
Known for his vocal prowess on such classic Savatage albums as Edge of
Thorns, Handful of Rain, and Dead Winter Dead, Zakk is starting anew with
his latest band Circle II Circle. Not totally forgotten are his past endeavors,
as he brings along his Savatage comrades Jon Olivia and Chris Caffery to
help him compose most of the tracks on the album. This connection is integral
to what Circle II Circle is all about. Savatage is the old circle in Zak's
music career and now he is linking it to his new circle.
Genre
Melodic rock / hard rock
The Good
Savatage comparisons are inevitable, but Circle II Circle start the disc
off with riffing muscle on the opening track “Out of Reach”.
This track helps define Zak’s new sound. It’s a gritty tone,
unlike the polished, high production sounding Savatage songs. Zak still
maintains his melodic delivery and passion. There are other songs in this
vain where Circle II Circle stands out. “Lies” is an emotionally
driven track about anger and frustration with relationships. The beefy
guitar riffs help punctuate the message. “The Circle” is a
straight power chord arrangement that’s pure carnal rock. Now, the
Savatage influenced tracks are not hard to find. “Into the Wind” starts
of with a nice arpeggio guitar pattern, followed by a spry drum beat that
leads into a monstrous, tuneful chorus. The trademark piano introduction
can be heard on the title track, “Watching in Silence” and “Forgiven” (among
others). “Walls” is pure Savatage style song writing. A subtle
piano followed by acoustic guitars, changed quickly into chugging guitars
and thoughtful lyrics. It’s clear to see that Zak’s proud of
his past. The seven minute, vocally impassioned track, “F.O.S.” (Fields
of Sorrow) concludes the album.
The Bad
Nothing
The Verdict
Watching in Silence is a powerful melodic rock CD from beginning to end.
Zak does a good job of giving Circle II Circle a sound of their own, while
still paying homage to his Savatage days. A perfect balance of music.
Did you know?
Circle II Circle guitarist Matt LaPorte auditioned for Savatage before the
Dead Winter Dead album. The job ultimately went to Al Pitrelli.
Rating:  out
of 5
Related Reviews:
Circle II Circle - Middle of Nowhere
Savatage - Edge of Thorns
--George
Dionne |
