ODD DIMENSION – The Blue Dawn (2021)

‘’The Blue Dawn’’ marks the return of Italian progressive rock/metal band ODD DIMENSION after an absence of eight years. They return with a new line-up, now with Jan Manenti (The Unity, ex-Love.Might.Kill) as front man, and believe us, this makes a difference. The man is an awesome powerhouse shouter, and he shines here.
But of course, also the material, a sci-fi prog epic, is really outstanding. There’s a deliciously detailed progginess with a richness to the guitars, energy when it’s needed and soaring highs courtesy of the impressive vocals and keyboards.

One of the more pleasing aspects of ”The Blue Dawn”, aside from just how sci-fi infused it feels, is that it rarely overdoes it. That’s not to suggest it isn’t insanely lavish and over the top, it needs to be considering the subject matter. What that means is the prog stays ordered and in keeping with the record theme. It’s not just a showcase of what comes out of the guitar.
The bass, drums and vocals are more than a match but are the keyboards that really stand tall across many of the album’s offerings. Elements take on a more prominent position depending on the track, allowing breathers, welcoming depth and variety into the overall experience.

The instrumental intro entitled ‘Mission No.773’ though, is gorgeous and shows the promise of great things to come. It is opulent, cinematic and highly atmospheric, with a huge sci-fi sheen. It is stirring and dramatic in the best way possible and I can’t wait for the album to continue.
‘Landing On Axtradel’ is the first ‘proper’ composition, a song that blurs the edges between progressive rock and metal. When vocalist Manenti enters for the first time, the band demonstrate some hefty vibes with bold piano notes. Without any doubt, Jan Manenti is a great addition to the fold as his voice is very powerful, expressive, and with a nice rock grit to it.

The band also veers into classic hard rock, with ‘The Invasion’ and its huge organ embellishments, or the title track melodic riffage. Speaking of strong melodies, I have to mention ‘Life Creators’ which is, for me, head and shoulders the best song on the record. The guitars are muscular and arresting in a way that they have never been up to now, delivering stunning melodies. The piano continues apace, adding depth, whilst the vocal performances are urgent and completely in keeping with the musical soundscape surrounding them.

Guests on ”The Blue Dawn” include Dream Theater / Sons Of Apollo keyboardist Derek Sherinian and Labyrinth vocalist Roberto Tiranti, but in truth the star here is the whole band.
HIGHLY Recommended

 

01. Mission N°773
02. Landing on Axtradel
03. The Invasion
04. Escape to Blue Planet
05. Solar Wind
06. Life Creators
07. The Blue Dawn
08. Sands of Yazukia
09. Flags of Victory
10. The Supreme Being

“Jan” Manenti – Vocals (The Unity, ex-Love.Might.Kill)
Gabriele Ciaccia – Keyboards (Secret Sphere)
Gigi Andreone – Bass (Sweet Oblivion, A Perfect Day)
Gianmaria Saddi – Guitars
Marco Lazzarini – Drums (Hell in the Club, Secret Sphere)
with;
Derek Sherinian – guest keyboards
Roberto Tiranti – guest vocals

 

Pre Order:
www.amazon.com/Blue-Dawn-Odd-Dimension/dp/B08SPSXG16