VASS/KATSIONIS (Melodic metal – Greece) – Album review of “Ethical Dilemma” (Released on February 2, 2022 via Symmetric Records)……..Review for KICK ASS FOREVER via Angels PR Worldwide Music Promotion #VassKatsionis

Album review written & submitted by Marian Nicolaou via Angels Pr Music Promotion

The idea that started as a solo album by Billy Vass has concluded to the progressive album presented. “Ethical Dilemma” is the debut record of the collaboration between Bob Katsionis and Billy Vass, the singer Terra Incognita. It seemed the timing was right for Katsionis and Vass to put something like this together, sighting the hiatus that Vass is taking from song writing for Terra Incognita, and Bob stepping down from his responsibilities from the Firewind. Having as foundation the ‘90s progressive scene and bands like Fates Warning and Queensryche, the duo presents their own take on the progressive metal.

According to Billy Vass, there was never the intention to make a concept album. However, while the writing of the lyrics, a constant appeared, a common theme that characterizes every track. From that perspective, even without the storytelling, “Ethical Dilemma” is a concept work. And while listening to it, it feels like that. Maybe with a bit more abstract concept, but there is definitely a common denominator.

Regarding the production of “Ethical Dilemma”, Katsionis stated that this project gave him the chance to get involved again with progressive metal by composing the music for this record.

The compositions in “Ethical Dilemma” express this reignited flame and passion. Complex guitars-but not too complex to end up just a show off, precise drum work, time-changing signatures, a clear sense of rhythm, groove and melody and the amazing vocal performance of Billy Vass, compose the musical aspect of their debut. 

Even the smallest detail feels carefully polished. All the performances are precise in order to sound almost robotically perfect and yet they never lose touch with the goal, which is to create music able to evoke feelings.

The “Ethical Dilemma” is an example of great songwriting and a show of skill and musicianship by both Vass and Katsionis. Their debut is not only a gem album for the Greek progressive metal scene but for the international as well. Let’s just hope that this won’t be their sole endeavor.