Band:	Novembre
Album:	The Blue
Style:	Extreme progressive metal
Release date:	November 05, 2007
A review by:	Dream Taster

01. Anaemia
02. Triesteitaliana
03. Cobalt Of March
04. Bluecracy
05. Architheme
06. Nascence
07. Iridescence
08. Sound Odyssey
09. Cantus Christi
10. Zenith
11. Argentic
12. Deorbit

There is nothing like finding a great band that you had totally ignored before. Novembre is one of those combos with little exposure to a large audience but who would deserve to be playing center stage at any Metal festival. Mixing very progressive elements with a softer blend of doom a la Anathema, the band from Rome has big things to offer. Anchored by two brothers, Novembre is no newcomer as The Blue is already album number 7, and what an album it is!

Continuing the trendy progression showcased on their previous album, 2006's Materia, Novembre once again pulled together a killer album. Long-time members Carmelo Orlando [guitars, vocals], Giuseppe Orlando [drums] and Massimiliano Pagliuso [guitars] have such chemistry. And with the addition of Luca Giovagnoli as a full-time bassist, the band is stronger than ever.

The exceptional song-writing that made Materia a standout album is also the main drive behind The Blue. Blending aggressive rhythm and growls with ever-present catchy melodies and breath-taking clean vocals, the musicians are at the top of their game. The mixed vocal styles of Carmelo, ranging from growls to pure clean voice, are an integral part of the band trademark style.

So many labels have been used for their music - from melodic doom to progressive gothic - that I have given up on categorizing their sound. Once again, diversity is the key word for the Italian combo. Each song is memorable, melancholic but catchy, often fast but melodic. As the album unfolds, one can only enjoy the work. There is something indefinable about Novembre's music, a hidden charm that captures listeners.

Brandished as Opeth copycats in their early years, the guys from Rome took their own musical path a long time ago, and it's about time for those guys to get the praise and support they have deserved for the last 13 years. The Blue is a really strong album and it will remain amongst 2007's best releases for sure. Widen your musical horizons with this album, it is really worth it.