FATES WARNING
“FWX”
(Metal Blade)

What a bittersweet taste is the one I feel??? One of the most innovative, intelligent and breathtaking bands of modern music history creates one more monument, which however implies that it might be the last effort of the group. At least this is what I have figured out by interviews of the band. Not for sure, but it seems that even if they keep going, they will only visit us rarely... and definitelly without the absolute drum god Mark Zonder who left the band, after sealing its sound in six studio albums.

To be honest I don’t see any point in writting this review. First of all there is nothing new in me writting that the latest album of the band is a masterpiece, as Fates since 1986 have only released monumental albums - this couldn’t change now. Second, Fates’ fans have already bought the album, they don’t wait for any kind of review as new releases from the band are like oxygen to us. As for those who keep ignoring the band... well, this is bad for them. After all Fates seem to have understood that they mark their own lonely way and are not looking for a commercial break since the “Parallels” album back in the early 90’s.

I think that the band is among the few which push music to the limits, open new ways, experiment on the edge, without losing the substance of music: that it is an art created to touch the deepest human feelings. This is what Fates managed to accomplish all over the years, both with their music and the lyrics - that seem that band’s members always have a way to find out what’s happening to our lives. Yet Fates seem to be neglected... as happens with all great artists during their time. After all they seem to be so far beyond! Listen for example to “Perfect Symmetry” which was composed in 1989 and is still considered progressive even for the 00’s.

Now, in musical terms the band seems to follow a more direct and heavier path than in its recent past. Without loosing the complicated forms, the tracks seem to be more solid - with a rather clear-cut structure. There aren’t very long songs (like in the “Disconnected” album). Nevertheless the melodies, riffs and drums are still so “twisted” (in the good sense) and neurotic that bare the trademark sound of the band. I could say that this is their most “down to earth” album since “Parallels” (yet so different than that). Forget “pop” progressive and the trend of its mixture with AOR-rock elements. Here we have one of the most intelligent bands ever, which decided to open it heart in order to present its humane look. For reasons I mentioned earlier the mark here has no meaning – it’s just for typical reasons.

by Alex Savatianos 9,5/10