Dutch quintet Nem-Q debuted in 2007 with the album "Opportunities Of Tomorrow" to come up with the concept album “301.81” five years later. It's been five more years since, and now in slightly new composition than before (singer/guitarist Paul Sieben, guitarist Mark Reijven, keyboardist Dennis Renders and drummer Twan Bakker with new bassist Maarten Meeuws) Nem-Q released a new album entitled "Fault Lines".
In fact, the album consists of two EP’s: "Subduction Zone" and "Terranes". The cover of the album reveals a clear line between the heart and the brain. It's not just a kind of artistic treatment, but it's the dividing line that sets the distinct stylistic difference between the two halves of the album. It is also an image of the main character's inner struggle for his choices in life and the resulting consequences – which are associated with emotions (heart) and reason (brain).
Musically they constantly turn to progmetal territory with heavy riffs, the dark atmosphere of individual recordings, complex melodies and non-obvious melodic lines. Do not expect powerful epic sounds here. Nem-Q is not another band in the Dutch school of neo-progressive rock. That is why I do not recommend the new Dutch album to sympathizers of the "pure" variety of prog rock music. Nevertheless, objectively speaking, "Fault Lines" is worth recommending because the Dutch musicians have really good ideas in their minds (and hearts!) and their collective work is full of enthusiasm and natural energy.
Nem-Q puts on organic rock with Sieben's stylish vocals, which, without any effort, blend perfectly together with numerous musical opposites fusing into tasteful dreamy and powerful sequences, full of crazy riffs.
Nem-Q plays good, honest hard rock. Or rather said, metal rock. For people who like to listen to Fates Warning, Watchtower and even Enchant.
Translation: Mark Reijven
