One of the aspects of Progressive Rock (Prog) I love is that is an International music genre. This morning I was looking for some new prog to listen to. So I visited the site New Prog Releases and checked for releases from yesterday, Nov 13th. One of the first albums I spotted was Epitaph by Pyramaze. And the band hails from Denmark – perfect!. I am listening to the album now and enjoying it! Listening has made me realize I have missed prog!
About Pyramaze
Pyramaze is a progressive metal band, as previously mentioned, which hails from Denmark.
The band formed in 2901/2002 when guitarist Michael Kammeyer left his band DAMION.
Ater a brief hiatus from music. Kammeyer decided to write and self-produce an album of his own original material. Kammeyer spent several months writing new songs. After which, he decided in the name Pyramaze and set out to find band mates.
First the rhythm section Morten Gade Sørense(drums) and Niels Kvist (bass). The keyboardist Jonah Weingarten ,an American Kammeyer met over the internet.
Finally, American singer Lance King,formerly of the band BALANCE OF POWER joined the band. He actually joined the band in 2003 after the band had laid down all the tracks for their debut album without vocals.
Finally, a second guitarist,Danish guitarist Toke Skjonnemand was added first fir shows and then as a permanent member of the band.
About Epitaph – Pyramaze
Epitaph is the band’s sixth studio album. Here is the line-up of the musicians for Epitaph
– Terje Harøy / vocals
– Jonah Weingarten / keyboards, orchestrations
– Toke Skjønnemand / guitars
– Jacob Hansen / guitars, bass, backing vocals
– Morten Gade Sørensen / drums
Yes, founding member Michael Kammeyer is missing! From Wikipedia:
In February 10, 2011, it was announced that band founder, songwriter, and guitarist Michael Kammeyer and bass guitarist Niels Kvist would be departing the band, citing family responsibilities. Shortly after, keyboardist Jonah Weingarten issued a letter stating that, despite losing their founder, leader, songwriter, guitarist, and bass guitarist all in one day, Pyramaze would carry on. This was backed up by a statement Pyramaze released that the band’s producer, Jacob Hansen, formerly of Invocator, Anubis Gate, and Beyond Twilight, would be joining as guitarist, as well as continuing to mix the band’s albums
The Bottom Line
Epitaph is a great Progressive Metal album.it has moments of great driving guitars mixed with symphonic changes and strong vocal arrangements. I can already see using the album as a soundtrack for a run! So check it out!
PYRAMAZE will appeal to fans of ZERO HOUR,MINDFLOW and ANUBIS GATE.
Here’s a very powerful video for “World Foregone” from Epitaph by Pyramaze.
Links for the Further Exploration of the Music of Pyramaze
Artist’s Website
Twitter
ProgArchives
Discogs
Wikipedia
