Music Review: Odd Dimension - Symmetrical

It is hard to fathom just how many bands are out there trying to carve a niche for themselves in the industry. Frankly, with so many bands and so many styles, not to mention the state of the industry, it has o be disheartening for many. Just think about the years of effort they have put ion mastering their chosen craft only to be summarily ignored, or close to it. On the other hand, it just provides the music fan with that much more to be on the look out for, you never know which direction the next favorite band will come from.


I know one way you can try to make a name for yourself, for better or worse. You know how? Model yourselves after another band, that's how! I want to be an optimist and believe that any likenesses to other bands, living or deceased, is purely coincidental. The problem is that the cynic inside me tells me that isn't the case and this is a cold and calculated attempt to gain notoriety by recalling the works of others. I hope the truth is actually innocent and this is just a band whose skills and predispositions have led them down a similar path.

With Odd Dimension you have a band that sounds a lot, and I mean a lot, like Dream Theater. They are clearly their own band with own skills, but the influence is really undeniable. And for some reason I find the similarities to be a little endearing.

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, but you know how thin the line is, right? Think about Quentin Tarantino, the guy where's his influences blatantly on his sleeve and always, in my opinion manages to create something that speaks to those influences but is still uniquely his own. I think that Odd Dimension could be going down a similar path. I am not saying that these guys are comparatively that good, but their talent on display here definitely has a high ceiling.

Symmetrical is a solid album with clean soaring vocals, some tasty riffs, nice keyboard work, and overall catchy songs that offer a lot to listen to. I feel these guys definitely have skills to use this jumping off point to craft more original songs moving forward that show themselves more than the influences.

In any case, I have to recommend the album. Simply put, it may seem familiar a times and there are moments where they falter, but here is too much talent here to ignore. So, if you are a fan of prog-metal give Odd Dimension a shot.

Recommended.