Radiant Thought is a Portuguese progressive metal band, and Transcendence is their debut album, which includes twelve songs with noticeable influences from bands such as Nine Inch Nails, Tool, and Porcupine Tree. Transcendence is a concept album lyrically exploring personal growth, resilience, and self-discovery, in other words a journey though cycles of struggle and renewal. All instruments, except the drums, which are managed by no one less than Baard Kolstad of Leprous, are played by Valter Abreu, while Miguel Pinto is the singer of Radiant Thought next to Abreu himself. The album opens with the short instrumental The Opening, featuring lots of piano notes, followed by the melancholic title track which offers beautiful vocal harmonies. Next up Radiance, truly reminds me of early Porcupine Tree compositions, meaning dark, sombre, melancholic prog metal characteristics; indeed, a song which you need to play at maximum volume by the way! Division is an instrumental track, featuring great guitar licks, hooks, riffs, and melodies galore, making this one of my favourite songs of the album for sure. An Endless Cycle is the longest track of the album, and this dark track truly reminds me of the notorious Tool, featuring impressive staccato guitars, magical riffs and heart-felt, almost haunted vocals. Prisoner is a very energetic track while The Aftermath highlights lots of progressive musical elements. Overall, Radiant Thought's debut album is a pure prog rock/metal feast with gripping guitar work, excellent, superb guitar riffs, formidable melodies and emotional vocals and heartfelt lyrics indeed. Transcendence is a thoughtful, atmospheric debut, so check it out and play it LOUD. Listening tip: Prisoner! **** Martien Koolen (edited by Tracy van Os van den Abeelen) Where to buy? |
