STARING INTO NOTHING – Power

With refreshingly literal lyrics, top-shelf production, and instrumental performances that take aim at the genre’s best, Power from Staring Into Nothing is a sobering dose of 70’s inspired, Melodic Rock.

Featuring themes that are mostly political in nature, the tracks on Power seem to stem from a deep distrust and open bitterness towards government and the social contract at large. The lyrics are delivered in a strikingly straight-forward manner and leave little room for imagination. While some listeners may be put off by the lack of lyrical poetry, these songs are so well delivered that the performances themselves have an irresistible vibe to them.

Sound wise, flavors of Arjen Anthony Lucassen, Pink Floyd, Supertramp, Avantasia, and other heavily melodic, contemplative acts can be found here in abundant supply. Tracks like “Puritans” and “Heads Or Tails” feature richly layered choruses with a fresh sounding mix of male and female vocals. Although the overall album has more than one lead vocalist, the voices compliment each other well and the changes in the lead vocal never seem startling or abrasive.

Even though they may need to wash their ears with some Power Metal escapism when they’re done listening, fans of Melodic Rock with a progressive, political flair will enjoy Power, thanks to it’s high production values, consistency, and raw, unapologetic directness.