Dredg
Catch Without Arms

Labeling Dredg is truly quite the enigma. Some define them as nu-metal, some a rock mixed with jazz, some post-hardcore, while others see them as the heirs to bands like Genesis and Pink Floyd... The fact is that after the magnificent "El Cielo" from 2002, three years later Dredg produced their third album, "Catch Without Arms". Produced by Terry Date (not just anyone), the CD can be comfortably divided into two parts, or rather two "perspectives" as Dredg like to tell us; the first consists of the initial seven tracks, and the second of the remaining five.

Let's analyze the tracks: "Ode To The Sun" evokes something of the old U2, while "Bug Eyes" is harmonious, but perhaps a bit too linear. The title track is a mix between Beatles, Elton John, and Radiohead and, as well played as it is, it left me a bit puzzled... better "Not That Simple", which reminds us of the more melodic songs of the Deftones, while "Zebraskin" takes us back to the funky-r&b of Incubus. "The Tanbark Is Hot Lava" is a mix between emocore and hardcore, as are "Hung Over On A Tuesday" and "Uplifting News": the three tracks are very interesting, but they don't enthuse me more than that... or rather, they don't make me shout to the miracle. "Sang Real" presents itself with a country guitar and a gentle piano which make the song very enjoyable to listen to, while "Planting Seeds" is quite similar to "Bug Eyes". "Spitshine" is clearly pop-punk (and that didn't really sit well with me...), "Jamais Vu" is a very melodic and gloomy track but it lacks a bit of character, which nevertheless highlights the voice of the frontman Gavin Hayes... much better is "Matrhoska", a much more serene ballad. What to say about this album? Dredg requires many listens to be appreciated, but I'll tell you: the first album, "Letimotif" (2000), I liked after about 10 listens, the majestic "El Cielo" after just 2 listens, while "Catch Without Arms", to earn a full 3 had required, in my opinion, about fifty listens... the biggest flaw is that Dredg, instead of continuing in their personal style, have shifted to a more pop-rock scheme... and that last word scares me a lot.

Nevertheless, this doesn't mean the album is rubbish, quite the opposite. Well produced, there's a lot of care taken in both the vocal and instrumental parts and also a few very interesting songs, although in my opinion, it does not deserve more than 3 (or at the most 3 and a half)... Well, long live personal tastes!!!