Slow Motion Reign -- Slow Motion Reign

Outward appearances might suggest that Slow Motion Reign is a baby brother band to System of a Down, since SOAD vocalist Serj Tankian signed SMR to his Serjical Strike label five years ago and serves as producer here (his first ever board job outside of his own group) on the band's full-length debut album. In fact, SMR could not be further removed from the virulent Metal of Tankian's full-time gig; the band's delicate piano-based Pop arrangements are closer to a more aggressive Coldplay or a more groove-oriented Catherine Wheel. SMR goes from whisper to scream with relative ease, their songs beginning with ephemeral and gorgeous melodies that evolve quickly into a crashing guitar din and occasional harmonic dissonance. "Embyonic" and "Via Satellite" are prime examples, beginning with hushed vocals and subdued piano runs before surging headlong into squalling guitar anthemics, while "Twilight Skylight' reverses the process, leading with a Chili Peppers Funk/Metal bop which gives way to a gentle acoustic guitar bridge before roaring back to full intensity again. SMR knows how to find their quiet place; "Shining Days" is relatively sedate throughout, and "No Way, No How" builds from a serene piano/guitar introduction to a thrilling yet still subtly shaded crescendo. In most cases though, Slow Motion Reign likes to combine disparate sonic textures to create a fascinating, engaging tension and a dark drama. (Brian Baker)

Grade: B+

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