Pittman Cole, a band based in Sweden but with members from different countries, present us their first LP “Guilty of prog N’ Roll”, and I have to say they ‘Guilty as charged’!
Comprised of 10songs, the album is characterized by a modern version of progressive rock or even metal in some cases, when the sound becomes heavier, however this is as modern-day as a progressive rock band can be. And with a bright future I will add.
Meticulously positioned guitar riffs, vintage mellotron keyboards with an emphasis on the old school Deep Purple sound (but with later glimpses as well), vocals deriving from the progressive 90s and a heavy rhythm section which provides the solid and emphatic basis of their sound. The band does not hesitate to experiment with the use of keyboards, while being groovy and convincing on their approach. One of the most interesting songs is ‘Nova’ (almost 8 mins long), which reminds us of the late 80s/early 90s, having such a great intro, combining all the elements of the music Pittman Cole has created, and despite its length, it is a very diverse, technical and varied track to listen to. Throughout the album, the melodies and the choruses are beautifully adding to its character, where the technical, melodic, theatrical and ultimately progressive elements all co-exist and co-work, bringing us a fine piece of music.
Pittman Cole is definitely a band worth checking, and I am pretty sure that, they will keep us busy in the next years, and, judging by “Guilty of Prog N’ Roll”, we can expect great things from them. Their first LP has left us with a lot of promises with its unique melodic and progressive appeal, being inspired by the glorious past and bringing the band’s best side, encouraging them for mor in the near future.
P.S.: The album was re-mixed and remastered by Erik Mårtensson, from Eclipse, W.E.T and The Nordic Union, and his contribution to the fantastic sound has been significant.
8/10
Text by Antonis Mantzavinos
Tracklist:
1) Monaco
2) DBLT
3) Coward
4) Nova
5) Roller Coaster
6) Architect Of Your Demise
7) And I Thank You
8) Mirage
9) The Who
10) Skies On Fire
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