When I received the email containing the download for this album my initial reaction was that I had already reviewed it, but a quick check proved me wrong. The reason for my confusion is that Centric Jones have released ‘The Antikythera Method’, and this is ‘The Antikythera Mechanism’. That led me to Wikipedia, where I discovered that the Antikythera mechanism is an ancient analog computer designed to calculate astronomical positions. It was recovered in 1900–1901 from the Antikythera wreck, but its significance and complexity were not understood until a century later. So there. Musically they are quite different as well, as while this is undoubtedly progressive these mad Finns also bring in plenty of metal as well as some pop. Imagine Opeth mixed with Muse with a large dose of Poisoned Electrick Head along with some lush harmonies and plenty of growls then you may get close. Only may though as you really have to hear this to understand what is going on. I’ve played it quite a few times now and the only thing I’m actually convinced of is that I like it, just not sure quite how to describe it. Given that I have been reviewing music for more than twenty years I’m not often stuck for words, but there you go.
This is the debut album from the band, following on from their ‘Scars Suit Me’ EP in 2010, which was awarded third place in best self-released record in the Finnish Metal Awards, and was selected the band of the month by Finnish metal magazine Inferno. The album deals with the ancient, highly sophisticated machine and adds historical and science fiction elements. Standing Ovation mix genres skillfully, gluing everything together with a heavy, metallic touch and their own style which at times is raw and others very polished indeed with loads of hooks. Definitely worth investigating further.
