Professor Emeritus re-emerges with a new lineup and a brand-new album. It’s definitely the beginning of a new chapter in the history of this band. While their debut (“Take Me to the Gallows”) was very impressive, this is a band with a slightly different dynamic and sound. Both albums stand tall on their own, and it’s not fair to compare them.
“A Land Long Gone” is a solid dose of epic metal backed up by excellent musicianship. The songs are catchy, well balanced, and adventurous. There are many unexpected right and left turns that take the listener by surprise. The band challenges itself by incorporating variety of influences that a lot of texture to the song structures. All of this combined makes this record want to be played on a repeated basis.
Vocalist Esteban Julian Pena is a great addition to Professor Emeritus. His vocals soar all over this record, and the color of his voice adds certain electricity to the music. What’s also very impressive is the incredible rhythm section consisting of Jose Salazar on bass and Chris Avgerin on drums. Those two players are working overtime here, and they need to be heard! Guitarists Tyler Antram and Lee Smith are extremely proficient, and they complement each other extremely well.
“A Land Long Gone” is an excellent record; it captures a very special feel and shows a lot of potential for the years to come. Professor Emeritus is definitely on the right track. This is a great collection of songs; you play them, and as soon as the album is over, you simply want to hear it again. Professor Emeritus certainly adds another flavor to the already rich Chicago metal scene.
Mark Kadzielawa
No comments:
Post a Comment