The Dillinger Escape Plan - Option Paralysis

Posted: Thursday, August 5, 2010 | Posted by Jason | Labels:
The Dillinger Escape Plan
Option Paralysis
Party Smasher/Season of Mist
B+





Falling somewhere in between the math-metal masterpiece Calculating Infinity and the less chaotic, yet oddly addictive Ire Works, The Dillinger Escape Plan’s Option Paralysis is a full-length honoring a system of musical checks an balance. Finally finding an honest median was no easy task, yet DEP’s compositions on Option Paralysis prove to satisfy the needs of both math and melody minded fans in one fluid motion.

A blitzkrieg of staccatos bursts forth on album opener “Farewell, Mona Lisa”, culminating in a less frantic, yet equally abrasive climax to set the scene for what this album embraces. Time signature wizardry is abound throughout the album, as tracks like “Endless Endings” and “I Wouldn’t If You Didn’t” show flexible fretwork and manic drumming to set the backdrop for Greg Puciato’s menacing growl.

Yet the effects of Ire Works and Miss Machine are still apparent on the band, proving they can effectively weave an ample amount of melody into their compositions without losing any bite. “Chinese Whispers”, which is a doozy of a number when heard live, crunches on a grimy guitar melody to showcase (rather than take away from) Puciato’s bark while weaving in creative drum work and packing a wallop in the process. Even the slightly out of place “Widower” flaunts brilliant piano flourishes throughout the track’s buildup to a block of signature rhythmic blasting.

After evolving over several full-lengths, The Dillinger Escape Plan have finally found a common ground for everything they seem to want to do musically. The fact they’ve managed to do this without completely losing their fan base is a testament to both the band and trustworthy fans who have supported this band long enough to keep DEP moving forward. Rest assured folks, regardless of what side of this band you enjoy more, you’ll be pleased with this option.

0 comments: