The news that Psychotic Waltz is back together in the original line-up including
Buddy Lackey and that there are plans for a tour and possible a new album has
spread fast among progressive metal fans, and what has The Shadow Theory
to do with this news-flash?
The common denominator is Devon Graves (Buddy Lackey) and "Behind the Black
Veil" is the debut album from The Shadow Theory, and an album that has
been in the making for the past four years. Devon Graves has surrounded himself
with a few newcomers to the scene and some long serving members; Johanne James
(Drums, Threshold) and Kristoffer Gildenlöw (Bass, ex-Pain of Salvation) form a
very strong rhythm section, while guitarist Arne Schuppner and keyboard player
Demi Scott are new to most.
"Behind the Black Veil" has musically more in common with his eleven years in
Psychotic Waltz, the "Mosquito" and "Bleeding" era first and foremost, than with
Deadsoul Tribe, with the music being thrashier, more psychedelic and even a bit
more symphonic, simply more versatile and darker. The reference with Psychotic
Waltz becomes even more obvious when Devon pulls out his flute, which he
thankfully does on a few tracks; other bands that come to mind are King Diamond
and Tool - just look at the album artwork.
A very well rounded album and an album that is the perfect passage from Deadsoul
Tribe to Psychotic Waltz and an album all fans of Devon Graves will adore with
good reason.
Good one!
