For his third album, "Pain Of Salvation" (POS) has decided to do things big. First of all, to propose a concept album with a theme so abstract that the lyrics become incomprehensible. Then, to go even further along the path they have taken since their first album. Finally, to be inspired by bands that have been or are still qualified as visionaries. It is therefore difficult not to make an exceptional album....
Because there is an exception in this "Perfect Element". The first exceptional element comes from Daniel Gildenlow's voice. Remember this name because not only does it have an organ of extraordinary power and accuracy, but it also composes, plays the guitar, makes the album covers and participates in many projects and tours with other bands. Being able to go into the high notes without female connotation - a rare thing with most melodic formations - brings to the album an extraordinary strength and does more than support the melody.
The instruments are not to be outdone and deliver a music that succeeds in combining technique with melody. Each emotion is transcribed to perfection. A lot of piano for lightness, big heavy riffs for nervousness or hatred, power ups that end in apotheosis, original arrangements,... give each track the tone, the mood of the moment with an intensity rarely reached.
There are many references and yet POS has an undeniable identity of its own. The most obvious comes from a band that was the precursor of what was once called "fusion": Faith No More.
Due to its richness, "The Perfect Element" is an album that cannot be described in detail. It becomes more and more important as you listen to it, despite its relative ease of approach. It's hard not to succumb to the power it gives off. It's hard not to be seduced by an album so close to perfection.