Maybe SiX BY SiX is an unknown band by most of you, but if I mention the bandmembers then you will certainly understand that is a kind of "supergroup" indeed, as this prog rock trio consists of: guitarist Ian Crichton (Saga), drummer Nigel Glockler (Saxon) and singer Robert Berry (Alliance, 3, Hush). The bands self-titled debut, released two years ago, established Six By Six as a power chord driven celebration of passion, persistence, and artistry indeed. Their music has a true melodic hard rock base, including some AOR and prog influences too; and their sound is really quite unique. Crichton's hooky, jazzy and sometimes heavy riffs obviously "dominate" the sound of Six By Six and if you listen to the amazing opening track Wren, you will certainly catch my drift; Berry's unique voice makes this song absolutely wonderful indeed. Follow up Arms Of A Word, the first single of this album, and track number three Can't Live Like This are both also rather energetic. Obilex is a mid-tempo song and that one features one of the best guitar solos of the entire album and it actually sounds like David Gilmour indeed.... The absolute highlight for me, also the longest track of the album, is called One Step; clocking in over just eight minutes, this is a really cool tune indeed, as the song seems to go and flow through several styles and moods, highlighting the more proggy side of Six By Six. Outside Looking In is another highlight, featuring a great chorus and lots of melody and it is also one of the most "commercial" tracks of the album. Overall, a great album with absolutely no fillers and the band sounds like they have been working together for years and Beyond Shadowland really crackles with musical energy and power! So not to be missed indeed, as this album, just like their debut, is really a must for fans of melodic heavy rock in the veins of bands such as Rush, Flying Colors, Journey, and Heart. **** Martien Koolen (edited by Tracy van Os van den Abeelen) Where to buy? |
