Most will probably be more familiar with Thomas Giles as Tommy Rogers, the frontman of Between The Buried And Me, but he’s also tried his hand at some solo stuff as well.
Modern Noise is his second solo album and it’s a rather experimental piece, like the last one. Whilst it may not be what you’re expecting from a member of a progressive metal band if you’re currently not familiar with his solo material yet, it is indeed a good listen.
It’s very atmospheric, with plenty of big instrumental moments to contend with, and the soft and gentle vocals complement the music well as the album flows from song to song. Whilst admittedly at times it doesn’t feel all that interesting and exciting, especially in the softer and drearier sections where the songs drag a little, if you look at the album as a whole it does work as part of a bigger picture.
A particularly powerful track is Blueberry Queen, and although it only clocks in at less than two and a half minutes long, it really leaves an impression on you because of the vocal style – they’re very rough and raw, and fit the somewhat bluesy feel of the song rather well.
Although the album doesn’t quite rank as a masterpiece, there are some gems to be found within and it’s a good album to stick on if you feel like relaxing and chilling out.
7/10
