Shattered Destiny - Fragments EP
Progressive music by its very nature is not bound by convention, yet without a clear direction or vision can become so convoluted that it can implode within itself and become a beast so untamed that it no longer serves the purpose it was intended for. With Fragments, Shattered Destiny have certainly explored the outer limits past the gates of convention, but their vision is unquestionable.
Mixing the flamboyant progressive power metal opera of Avantasia with the harder hitting riff-heavy clamour of Communic, Shattered Destiny are a breath of fresh air, despite walking over already well-worn footprints. Band visionary and frontman JJ is the handle that turns the cogs here, his rasping vocals fitting in well amidst Roman Guryev's impressive fretwork and Andrey Ischenko's solid drumming. Songs such as grand opener Welcome and the ambitious Deceitful Heart flow smoother than expected, given the complexities within the music. Time signatures on Fragments are rarely orthodox, yet the music remains undeniably listenable, with Oblivion and Epilogue as close to sing-along anthems as you can get when you're this deep into prog territory.
Darkly sublime, theatrical, ambitious; Shattered Destiny certainly have it all in spades. If they can recreate all of this live it will certainly be a spectacle, although Avantasia have Kai Hansen in a suit and top hat so they already have their work cut out for themselves.
If you've heard The Devin Townsend Project's Deconstruction album and can enjoy it for its over-the-top pomposity and barely controlled insanity, you'll want to pick up a copy of Fragments. A melting pot of quirky-yet-punishing riffs, grandiose keyboard atmospherics and progressive ideals, this EP is but a taste of what will surely be a highly satisfying career. Remember the name Shattered Destiny as we move towards 2013, and be ready for progressiveness, concepts, riffs, and hopefully top hats.