Katarzyna NINa Górnisiewicz | Detailed or mini-review submissions: song, EP/album | Suggest an artist

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Indighost - Torn (song review) (self-released, single, 2012)

Indighost was formed at the Guitar Institute in West London, UK in 2006. They independently released The Yang Collection EP in 2009 with 5 songs on the tracklist, however the line-up of the band has changed over the course of the past few years. "Torn" is a more recently recorded track that is a strong candidate to be featured on their next album.

The song brings with it an emotional feel. According to Indighost, "Torn" was inspired by the romantic tension between the main characters on the television series Doctor Who. The video for this track is also comprised from a montage of several scenes from the series. One thing worth mentioning is that "Torn" emulates the Doctor's impending doom, hence the running feel of the rhythm that sounds as if it is catching up with Doctor Who as he tries to escape it. Rummy Keshet makes good use of his 5-string bass while drum tracks by Martin Griffith intertwine with various intriguing percussive elements.

Melodic lines are strong in this track and are present not only in the choruses, but in the verses as well. Matt Simon (vocals) is a classically trained musician who received his degree from the British music college mentioned above. He admits that he is inspired by the works of Sting as well as Megadeth, Dream Theater and Def Leppard. He also enjoys combining these inspirations with occasional funk music and jazz influences. While the entire song expresses key features of both the metal and rock genres, Matt's vocals touch upon the boundaries of progressive rock too. He utilizes his baritone voice with light constraint, which is quite typical for modern progressive bands.

The two guitar players (Matt Simon and James Hewitt) cooperate in harmony by using chords, scales and modes in a truly fantastic manner. An epic unison of each instrument takes place in the central point of the song which is then followed by smooth virtuoso guitar solos that seem to possibly be inspired by the styles of Steve Vai or Joe Satriani. These riffs continue spicing up the song all the way towards the end.

"Torn" is a great, ear-friendly song that is suitable for a commercial jingle, motion picture soundtrack or radio airplay. This is a solid composition that is enriched with vivid, almost visual arrangements that make the song memorable. It should also be noted that these musicians make and sell custom guitars that are decorated and painted by hand. Check out their official website for all accessible instrument models.

(Katarzyna 'NINa' Górnisiewicz, Fabryka Magazine, August 28th, 2012. Proofreading: Scott M. Owens)

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