Band : The Under
Album Title : Mercurial
Label : Own release
Distributor : /
Release Date : 2008
Review : CD

The Under hail from USA, and this is their first full length 8 track album. T

heir sound is difficult to categorize; though it is really heavy metal, it does contain prog, punk and doom elements. They are willing to take risks in developing their songs, instead of sticking to what's comfortable and predictable.  The major focus is Daniel Costa’s guitar work, which is strong in terms of feel and tone. There's technique to be sure, but not a hint of overplaying to be found. The guitar solos which are influenced by Alex Lifeson (Rush), Jim Matheos (Fates Warning) and Piggy (Voi Vod) are varied and interesting, showing a mixture of melody and adjunct textures. Certainly the weakest link for this band is the singer, whose clean parts are way too flat to be ignored. The production could be a little better, as it's lacking in power. While every track has merits, none of them give you that extra something to knock you off your feet. It is guaranteed to get your attention; but there is no guarantee that it's your cup of tea. 

All put together, and despite a few parts that don't suit my taste at all, The Under have produced a very interesting and certainly original debut.

80/100

Cosmicmasseur.