Review of Distortion of Perception - Project One: I.S.O.Birth?

It’s been months since I’ve visited HomeStarRunner(.com), so my memory is a tad fuzzy, but to me the frontman of Distortion of Perception sounds a little like Strongbad – sans the high-pitched, power metal vocals found on “Burnination.” Moving on, though, the esoterically titled Project One: I.S.O. Birth? serves as the introduction to this Grecian band. And while there are some things done right, there are definite shortcomings, which may in fact discourage the listener from embracing this wholeheartedly.

I’m not really a fan of Nevermore. Woah! Are we still in the same review?! Yes we are, and I’ll tell you why. One of the band’s self-proclaimed influences happens to be Nevermore, and the more I listen to ‘em, the more I hear Warrel Dane in the vocals. There’s also a distinct modern sound to Distortion of Perception, found in any of the four tracks housed on this demo. For an introductory effort, the production is spectacular, and the musicians are gifted as well. “Super Zeroe” is the leadoff, carting three and a half minutes of thrashy modernism to the consumer’s ears. The real Dane comparisons can be drawn from “Between Me and Myself,” and the former is more melodic than its brethren. Out of all the seven minutes, however, the most impressive chunk is the mid-section when guitar leads steal the forefront. Nice leads – in overall tone and execution – melded with solid background riffs. The compromise track, if there is one, is “No Slow Motion,” which boasts all the characteristics we’ve heard thus far. The vocals are shaky when Billias opts for boisterousness, but the singing is just in need of significant improvement, rather than a full-on overhaul. Thrash aficionados, who are open to power metal vibes, will be thoroughly pleased by “Abuse Enhanced,” as it features plenty of tight instrumentation. The thrash shouts are reminiscent of Peter Espevoll’s (Extol), and I took a liking to them immediately. Actually, now that we’re on the topic, Distortion of Perception would be more formidable if Billias dropped the clean vox altogether. They wouldn’t mirror Nevermore as much, but reread the first line of this paragraph to glean my thoughts on the matter. As it turns out, “Abuse Enhanced” is my favorite, and can be heard on the group’s MySpace profile. If I revisit anything from this demo, it’s undoubtedly going to be the cleanup track.

These twenty minutes are a step in the right direction, as they say, though I’d like to see them venture out from behind the shadows of their idols. Project One: I.S.O. Birth? – whatever the fuck that means – is slightly above average, warranting a mere glimpse or three. If they capitalize on their strong points, however, then I envision Distortion of Perception blossoming into a likeable band. This is a little awkward at times, but not bad at all. Interested beyond belief? Then get to MySpace(.com) and Download(.com) pronto! If not, jet to HomeStarRunner(.com) instead. That way everyone leaves happy.

Release Details

Distortion of Perception

Project One: I.S.O.Birth?

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