Review Summary: Shattered Skies proves that they are more than just metal.
Only nine months after their debut EP, Shattered Skies has manage to Reanimate "Reanimation". And I have to say, this really how much they deserve the ultimate honor, that is, having the skills and abilities of Dream Theater. Interpret that as a good thing, I know some of you will argue that they have a completely different original style and you would obviously be correct. But the fact that they don't shy away from clean vocals and experimentation is a very powerful similarity, in fact I recall DT remaking Wither with only piano and voice, such as this EP. Regardless of what band, if any, they show similarities with, this band is top notch. So let's do a short track by track so you can see what I'm talking about.
Nine months isn't a super long time but if there's a band releasing a record, you would want new material right? The first track, As The Sea Divides, gives us just that. From the opening electronic and keyboard opening, there's a significant improvement present. The sound is crystal clear and the energy is the tiniest bit higher. The track is extremely addictive and it never feels like it's too short whenever I listen to it.
Now we have the main part of the release, which is a modified version of three Reanimation songs stripped of everything but piano and singing. No quick screams to add to the dark mood, but it a way this works to their advantage. Listening to the originals and then comparing them to these, I almost want to say that these are better. There's something so heartfelt about them now and it makes me happy. Overall, this is what really made me come to the realization that Shattered Skies has real talent. Obviously I love a good djent/progressive metal band, but when they can step out of their prime genre a bit, that's skill.
So why is it .5 short of a perfect 5? Honestly, it's only because it's not to be considered a full release, it's more of an afterthought to the previous release. If you only listen to this EP, you can't get a good interpretation of the band's true talent, you would need to hear the original first. That's the only reason.
So pick up a copy of this incredible band's album!
