Utopian Trap – Fiction Fades Into Reality

Impaired:

First impression is the name of the game in this genre! I liked what I heard first up with a catchy guitar line! A driving rhythm set the mood for this song! The length of intro became some concern for me though as the song began to almost feel like an instrumental track in the making. The vocals soon made it obvious it wasn’t instrumental. By the end I was still pleased with the overall sound though somewhat not as bodied as I would have preferred, a little thin for my liking.

Production 7 Songwriting 6 Musicianship 6

Hollow Point Death Knell:

Good rhythm structure for main riff in this song. It grooves well with an exciting beat and aura. After the finish I had to think it was almost two songs in one not fitting into your commercial typical song format ala Black Sabbath for this style. I enjoyed the ideas though.

Production 7 Songwriting 6 Musicianship 6

Fragile:

This track began with a haunting type acoustic feel, almost minstrel medieval style. The song developed into a completely different feel, which carried through till the end with several movements or passages. By this third song I was starting to get the feel the album was more a matter of movements for different phases of stories yet not operatic, nor commercially inclined catchy songs. Again, I heard potentially great ideas and creativity wanting to flourish here.

Production 7

Songwriting 6

Musicianship 6

Hate Machinery:

Starting slow and sensual in texture, the track suddenly develops into a chunky, dark theme. This moves into a gallop type rhythm structure. I found the track lacking in vocal clarity and I’m not a huge fan of hard to understand vocals. This track was somewhat monotonous. The guitar tones were great and the end gave us an idea of developing lead guitar virtuosity. Having a very demanding industry out there, this track did not quite cut it for me.

Production 7 Songwriting 6 Musicianship 6.5

Like Child Like Man:

Creepy and dark, this song draws you in at first. Vocals are much more clear within this song, showcasing the tones of the singer in a more appreciating way. Again there are several movements throughout, a little messy, taking you to too many places.

Production 7 Songwriting 6 Musicianship 6

Vicodin Baby:

There are interesting production ideas in this song. Guitars get space to show off more. I don’t get grabbed though leaving me to feel a little let down. This track felt like it was going through the motions for the sake of it, and not really taking you anywhere.

Production 7

Songwriting 5

Musicianship 6

Rebirth:

This floats to the first verse with a crunchy rhythm and then picks up with a grungy riff. I like the guitars in this song, which stands out from the others. Holding you throughout, I found this track the most enticing so far on the album. We have excellent creative potential here.

Production 7 Songwriting 7 Musicianship 7

A Promise Of Paradise:

In your face riffage from the start ignites this piece. Digresses though into an almost out of place change. Back into the main song feel we again get hooked. The vocals are inconsistent for my liking, which is not to say the vocals have no potential for outstanding works.

Production 7 Songwriting 6 Musicianship 6

Doctrine Of Premonition:

A sweet melodic intro gives way to a grungy bass riff into more grooving guitar lines, sets the mysterious vibe for this track. I really like the clean guitars on this track as well.

This tune sits well on my ears with adventurous lines and tones. By far the most versatile and luscious track musically, I enjoyed the aural adventure here. This is a fine end to a potentially cool band.

Production 7 Songwriting 7 Musicianship 7

I see great potential for a developing outfit. More solid production and structured songs will up the anti for this band Utopian Trap. My overall sense is the songs aren’t quite strong enough to be memorable or commercial and verge on instrumental beds. The lead guitars need to showcase more and production control is somewhat lacking luster and body. Well done, bring it on, could develop very well indeed!

Pete M. HeavyMetalReview.com   10/21/2010