Platens – ‘Of Poetry And Silent Mastery’

(Art Of Melody)

Dario Grillo’s Platens return with the very interesting ‘Of Poetry and Silent Mastery’ which encompasses a very broad variety of rock and mixes a lot of elements into its highly melodic AOR core making for a unique listening experience.

The album does have some obvious highlights would should have universal appeal but because of the unconventional nature of many of the songs it could possibly be less accessible for some. It’s probably an album that will take a few spins to sink in properly with some.

I could enthuse about this album endlessly with its intriguing song writing and copious memorable moments but it would be remiss of me to not mention it may not be for everyone. Given the adventurous song writing and broad mix of styles I can imagine it bewildering as many people as it will stun into singing its praises.

Grillo is not afraid of mixing it up with his song writing – starting with a strong Melodic Rock /AOR core most noticeable in the albums strong melodious tone and plentiful hooks. Grillo throws in plenty of Prog and Symphonic elements and atmospherics and even some pounding metallic rhythms and sharp guitar riffs. It’s a hard album to pigeon hole within a singular genre.

Song’s people should definitely check out include the heart-warming ‘Open Arms’ which exudes an extremely positive and affirming atmosphere. Smooth Melodic Rocker ‘Easily’ really gets under your skin with it’s keyboard hook and indelible chorus. Probably the most stunning chorus comes on ‘Paralyzed’ with its haunting guitar riff and atmospheric keyboards been the cherry on the cake!

Given the mix of musical style of the album ‘Where The River Flows’ really throws you up in the air when it opens up like an old school Bon Jovi rocker – a real flip of the coin to the more progressive and atmospheric impact of the rest of the album!

Some of the guitar work is simply sublime and Grillo displays a wide range of guitar skills which are awe inspiring to hear. The Keyboards are not to be sniffed at either. They add a lot of colour and ambience to many of these epic sounding songs. Musicianship wise there is no faulting this album it’s a stunning musician showcase from start to finish, expert level musicianship.

‘Of Poetry and Silent Mastery’ is a superb album, if you approach it with an open mind, you will get blown away. It’s adventurous, exciting, unique and unforgettable!

8/10

Essential Track - 'Paralyzed'

Review by Woody