IZZ – Collapse the Wave (2024)
IZZ is a innovative New York-based progressive rock ensemble, not only taking elements from that genre, but a varied musical spectrum. Their latest album “Collapse the Wave” melds intricate rhythms and complex harmonies to craft a narrative both compelling and transformative.
The album, produced by IZZ keyboardist and vocalist Tom Galgano, features a collection of eleven tracks that challenge conventional perceptions and invite listeners to explore beyond the boundaries of traditional rock. There’s rock&pop elements, art-rock, some hard rock swirling guitar work, and IZZ even invented here a whole new musical category; ‘Prog-Westcoast AOR’ – just listen to the track ‘Soak Up the Sunlight’.
On “Collapse the Wave” IZZ play with an enthusiastic energy to give us what could be their heaviest and most excellent album to date.
“We Are The 3rd” blasts out of the gate – loud and bold, heavy and confident – crushing all expectations. Tom’s brother John Galgano bass work is stellar, true ‘bass-guitar’. How can you not love a fat punchy “audible” growly bass tone?
“So Many Voices” is a short piano driven ballad. “Brace For Impact” is a heavy rocking tune, driving and melodic. Then “Deep Inside” is a catchy poppy song with excellent signing by the band’s female singer Laura Meade.
Next up is the title track. It begins with a jumpy jazzy pattern propelled by the tight rhythm section. IZZ shine during instrumental moments, and that is heard through the first 2 1/2 minutes of this song. “Sometimes Sublime” is another slower tune showcasing acoustic guitar. Paul Bremne’s guitar work is outstanding.
“There’s Hope!” is an uptempo song that has a definite Yes vibe, with ver nice vocal harmonies.
“Breathren” is totally unexpected, a very short fierce percussive jam where the drummers, Brian and Greg, let loose. I only wish it lasted longer. Is it only me, or does the beginning of “Not About Me” sound like a Frost* song? Is that Jem Godfrey or Tom signing? Most definitely one of the highlights.
“Soak Up The Sunlight” is another upbeat tune with playful instrumental jams, smooth, with a Westcoast feeling and proggy melodic at the same time. The album ends with “And We Will Go”. I dig the syncopated drum riffs and the urgency of the tune. Leaves you wanting more.
If you need to hear something different but definitely rock, then discover IZZ. A lot of styles here on “Collapse the Wave”, always surprising, and entertaining. The production and engineering also shine.
Highly Recommended
01 – We Are the 3rd
02 – So Many Voices
03 – Brace for Impact
04 – Deep Inside
05 – Collapse the Wave
06 – Sometimes Sublime
07 – There’s Hope!
08 – Brethren
09 – Not About Me
10 – Soak Up the Sunlight
11 – And We Will Go
Tom Galgano: Keyboards, Vocals
Laura Meade: Vocals
Paul Bremner: Electric & Acoustic Guitars
Brian Coralian: Electronic & Acoustic Drums and Percussion
Greg DiMiceli: Acoustic Drums and Percussion
John Galgano: Bass Guitar, Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Vocals
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