EBONIVORY

The Long Dream 1

EElegant prog metal from Down Under.

bonivory’s The Long Dream 1 is the first installment in a two part concept album. And once the listener has heard what it is that the Aussie fivepiece do, there’s a definite enthusiasm for finding out what’s in store next time.

The nebulous storyline is about visiting your own past through the lens of subsequent experience. How you perceive your younger self from the vantage point of where you are now. That might sound a little pretentious but musically it’s impressive.

Ebonivory spent four years working on the follow up to 2015’s debut album The Only Constant, and it’s been worth such effort. Drawing from Dream Theater, Cynic and Rush, they construct intricate compositions without losing themselves in complexities. Each track flows smoothly into the next, giving the impression of a symphony in 13 parts.

Hammer Street and A Colour I’m Blind To are fine examples of the way they operate; Charlie Powlett’s imposing vocals and Louis Edwards’ virtuoso guitar work intertwine to create an enthralling atmosphere. As final track Introvection gently fades, you’ll wonder what the next part will offer. Let’s hope we don’t have to wait too long to find out.