Review Summary: Art By Numbers make a good first impression.
Art By Numbers: I discovered these guys in early 2011, at the time they had a few impressive demos such as Minotaur, Reyes, and Queen Anne's Revenge; I knew from the start that they headed in the right direction. Now in 2012, they are ready to release a full-length album, Reticence: The Musical.
One of the things I really admire about Art By Numbers is their overall sound. In today’s metal scene, there aren't enough bands that introduce something new to the genre … or explore further into the music genre itself. In fact, there are way too many bands that sound the same; It seems to me that some bands don’t show progression or experiment with new sounds. As for Art By Numbers, they are one of the few bands that have shown great technique and creativity with their music, at the moment, not many bands play this style of music (with great skill), therefore it’s different and appealing.
This album flows very well because of how well the songs are arranged. It is presented with 12 songs; and it clocks in at about 36 minutes, with songs ranging from two to four minutes. The album delivers intense guitar solos, inspiring guitar riffs, as well as beautiful piano leads, smooth bass lines, intense drum work, and of course outstanding vocals + lyrics.
I found the lyrics to be a bit mysterious/poetic.
For example, take the lyrics for "Twelve Days”...
Carry me, up across the atlas.
Let it be, wash my hands or find me in open sea.
On and on, surely there is an end to this.
I've been left out, I realize I've landed on the other side.
Considering all I've heard, Confiding in what I know.
Wondering why I'd ever wait so long.
Here's another example, coming from the song "Venice Is Sinking”...
These lasting words took the best of us and tore our lives apart.
My final fear was the first of every choice that I regret.
Life takes away all the rest of what had given clarity.
Too late, never replace what’s left, it’s all taken for granted.
Overall, they are very well written, making them easy to understand, or at least good enough for the listener to come up with a personal interpretation.
Art By Numbers have created a memorable and unique album; I highly recommend the following songs: Twelve Days, Venice Is Sinking, Best Laid Plans, and Au Revoir, all great examples of what this album has to offer. Give it a listen you won't be disappointed.
