Zero Hour is a Californian band founded by the Tipton twins (Jasun and Troy), as much adored as hated by progressive metal fans, the technique often taking precedence over the melodies. For "Agenda 21", the team has been radically changed: Chris Salinas (vocals) has been replaced by Erik Rosvold (Cynthesis), Mike Guy (drums) has given up his position to Roel van Helden (Powerwolf). Last but not least, Troy Tipton (bass), a founding member of the band, has left his place to Andreas Blomqvist (Seventh Wonder) following an arm injury that led Troy to a temporary stop of the band's activities. This new version of the band is thus deprived of half of its creative force.
As Zero Hour is used to, the record is ultra technical but also plays the card of the emotion and the melody. 'Memento Mori' is an moving track that blossoms on a beautiful clear guitar and angelic keyboards. The voice is full of emotion and sensuality in the manner of Bon Jovi. 'Democide' is an energetic progressive track with harmonies that dress up an airy softness contrasting with the power of the voice. A very beautiful song!
'Agenda 21' goes back to a muscular progressive with a sharp riff, technical guitars and convoluted atmospheres. It gives goosebumps thanks to the superb powerful and snarling vocal part. 'Stigmata' starts out at full power, but the band breaks the energetic flow with a bittersweet passage with arpeggios and emotionally charged vocals. The introduction of 'Patient Zero' is based on an acoustic guitar, synthesizer layers and timid drums. But very quickly the tone hardens with a hyper technical riff and a convoluted rhythm, then some jazz harmonies bring a silky softness. A beautiful title for a final all in colors!
Zero Hour offers a record that relies on emotion. The annoying ones will note the lack of melodies, even if the disc conceals many of them, certainly not immediate. Between Dream Theater and especially Fates Warning at the time of "A Pleasant Shade of Grey", "Agenda 21" is full of class and well executed, even if it sometimes lacks variety.