Dark Deceiver is progressive metal with an edge. It's highly technical with outstanding musicianship from guitarist Jasun Tipton and his brother, bassist Troy Tipton. Troy really gets to showcase his chops on the instrumental "Tendonitis." The songs range from focused 3 minute tracks to complex 12 minute epics.
Chris Salinas is Zero Hour's vocalist, and he also does a good job. From effects laden spoken word to melodic singing to Geoff Tate-esque belting, he is very versatile. In addition to being edgier and more aggressive than the average prog metal band, Zero Hour also manages to add in enough hooks and melody so it's not all technical wankery. Dark Deceiver combines the sensibility of groups like Meshuggah and Dream Theater into Zero Hour's unique sounding concoction.
(released April 29, 2008 on Sensory Records)
