Threshold: Dead Reckoning

Threshold's latest album has spent quite a lot of time in my CD player lately. Once again the band has crafted an amazing progressive metal album, which doesn't relapse too much on gimmickry but instead is quite a focused record. It has intriguing song structures, varying compositions and enticing hooks. However, a lot has happened since the interview I did with Richard West. Andrew "Mac" McDermott parted ways with the band, which must have come as a surprise to everyone. On a sidenote, in a way I always was more of a fan of the first singer Damian Wilson, because Mac's voice is a bit colder than Damian's. Regardless, Mac handles his part on this album well, and especially he seems to shine on the slower sections and ballads.

To get back on track, if I should point things out that bother me in the longer run... well, perhaps the biggest letdown regarding Dead Reckoning is that it isn't as inventive as one could have wished for. When one has listened to all Threshold records, one can't ignore the fact that the band could introduce some fresh ideas to their sound every once in a while. Admittedly they've tried to make a heavier album this time by featuring Dan Swanö on two tracks, and in my view this was a really good idea, but I think it could have been done to a greater extent. Other than that, there's not much to point out. My overall impression of Dead Reckoning is really positive. All in all, it's an outstanding album that deserves your attention, in case you're into progressive metal and rock.

Tracklist:
01. Slipstream
02. This Is Your Life
03. Elusive
04. Hollow
05. Pilot in the Sky of Dreams
06. Fighting for Breath
07. Disappear
08. Safe to Fly
09. One Degree Down

Length: 54:58

Line-up:
Mac: vocals
Karl Groom: guitars
Richard West: keyboards
Steve Anderson: bass
Johanne James: drums
(Additional vocals on tracks 1 & 3: Dan Swanö)

Threshold: Pilot in the Sky of Dreams Video