Barstool Philosphers, The - Sparrows

SKU 070357345999-2
THIS RELEASE FLOORED ME! Second album from this Dutch band that promotes themselves as symphonic rock but I hear a lot more metal than they give themselves credit for. The band is fronted by Leon Brouwer and I have to say he's one of the most impressive vocalists I've heard in quite some time. He sounds like...get this...a cross between David Bowie and Geoff Tate. Sparrows is a conceptual work dealing with one man's disintegrating marriage. Uh...ok. The music has a symphonic element that is primarily there for texture but is very present. Brouwer's vocals are very emotional but never too overwrought - I feel like he really means it. Guitarist Ivo Poelman comes up with really tasty riffs and hooks. At the moment the tune "Dreamscape" rules my world - it reminds me of something from the long lost band Gone (sorry for the obscure reference but if you know the band you will fall all over yourself when you hear this). I don't want to scare off any prog rock fans. The band cites Marillion, Saga, and Pendragon as musical reference points and those elements are definitely present - more so Hogarth-era Marillion. Definitely a "tweener" - could be classified as prog metal or prog rock. I'm leaning towards the former, your mileage may vary. BUY OR DIE!
  • Style:Progressive Metal
  • Record Label:Private Release
Your Price $13.00
Qty

Customer Reviews

Average Rating

more I listen to it, and more I fall into it. what a groove, what a voice!!
Was this review helpful?

I love this disc! I think the singer Leon Brouwer is on his Game. This Dude can sing. Great voice! Just listen to Fallen Angles& Endless Seasons and tell me this guy cant' sing? BUY OR DIE IS RIGHT!
Was this review helpful?

For me this is a interesting release, You either love it or hate it. Personally the Vocals didnt hit home to me (IMO).The music is fine, Maybe with a different Singer I might feel differently.The Hooks work ,But I dont hear the Saga , or the Pendragon here, Yes on Marillion though...B.Ricci
Was this review helpful?

a very solid disk, reminds me alot like queensryche when they were great-----only better
Was this review helpful?