Rating: 9 / 10 Stars
MEANSTREAK is: Bettina France (vocals), Martens Myung (bass), Yael Rallis (drums), Marlene Portnoy (guitar), Rena Sands-Petrucci (guitar)
REVIEW – MEANSTREAK‘s ‘Blood Moon – EP‘ emerges not only as a thrilling display of metal prowess but also as a unique intersection of talent and legacy within the metal community. The band, featuring the formidable lineup of Marlene Apuzzo, Rena Sands, and Lisa Pace — all of whom share a personal connection with members of the iconic Dream Theater — channels a deep reservoir of musicality and metal heritage into this release. Their familial ties to Dream Theater members John Petrucci, John Myung, and Mike Portnoy, respectively, add an intriguing layer to the EP, enriching its narrative with a fusion of influences and experiences that propel MEANSTREAK’s sound into exciting new territories.
The EP kicks off with “The Dark Gift,” setting a commanding tone with its crunchy riffs, screaming guitars, soaring vocals, and steady rhythms. This opening track serves as a powerful statement of intent, showcasing the band’s ability to weave complex instrumental textures with compelling vocal delivery. The synergy among the band members is palpable, as they navigate the intricacies of the composition with precision and passion, crafting a sound that is both aggressive and melodically engaging. It’s a track that not only demands attention but also celebrates the prowess and intensity of female musicianship in a genre often dominated by male performers.
“Oh Father” shifts gears slightly, offering a dynamic blend of anthemic fist-pumping, swaying melodies, and chant-along choruses that encourage listeners to engage actively with the music. The track’s structure invites participation, creating a communal experience that transcends the boundaries between the band and their audience. This invitation to play air guitar along with the band underscores the track’s infectious energy and showcases MEANSTREAK‘s talent for crafting songs that are as memorable as they are exhilarating.
“Rubberneck” further amplifies the EP’s intensity with its crunchy riffs, scorching leads, pounding drums, and thundering bass, all complemented by amazing vocals that navigate the complex arrangement with ease. This track stands out for its robust instrumentation and dynamic shifts, highlighting each member’s technical proficiency and collective cohesion. The result is a hard-hitting, adrenaline-pumping piece that embodies the spirit of classic metal while injecting it with a fresh, contemporary edge.
Concluding the EP, “Giants Speaks” encapsulates the essence of classic metal madness, enveloping listeners’ senses with its compelling narrative and immersive soundscapes. The track’s ability to convey a sense of epic storytelling through its instrumentation and vocal delivery is a testament to MEANSTREAK‘s creative vision and musical mastery. It’s a fitting end to the EP, leaving a lasting impression of the band’s capacity to fuse traditional metal elements with their unique identity and perspective.
Overall, ‘Blood Moon – EP‘ is a remarkable achievement for MEANSTREAK, showcasing their evolution as musicians and their commitment to pushing the boundaries of the metal genre. The EP stands as a beacon of high-caliber musicianship and creative integrity, offering listeners a deeply engaging and powerful metal experience that resonates on multiple levels. Through this release, MEANSTREAK not only pays homage to their connections with Dream Theater but also establishes their standing as formidable artists in their own right, capable of crafting compelling, impactful music that speaks to the heart of the metal community.
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