Rock/Review Pryzme - True Stories… and Other Lies
Pryzme's music can be described as airy and accessible progressive rock. The multiple influences range from Pink Floyd to Yes, from Sting to Steven Wilson, from Pat Metheny to Toto, and many others... On stage, Pryzme is a journey that takes the audience to lands where rock, prog, jazz, and sometimes even metal meet.
A captivating and sophisticated sophomore album, “True Stories… and Other Lies,” solidifies the French progressive rock band Pryzme's position in the genre's contemporary revival. Four years after releasing their first album, “Four Inches,” the band from Rennes is back with more self-assurance, a wider perspective, and a more emotionally charged sound palette that elevates their performance to new levels.
A masterwork of harmony, this record combines emotional depth with technical accuracy. Pryzme still uses prog rock's defining characteristics, such as complex time signatures, layered orchestration, and lengthy song structures. Its genuine sincerity, however, is what distinguishes “True Stories… and Other Lies.” Every song has a sense of purpose and is never overly excessive, with lyrics that alternate between introspection and ethereal narrative.
The album is like a journey through a movie. Repetition is rewarded by the rich tapestry created by atmospheric keys, soaring guitar solos, and dramatic rhythm variations. Whether addressing internal conflicts or examining the hazy boundaries between reality and fantasy, Pryzme immerses listeners in a realm where virtuosity and vulnerability coexist. The band seems completely unique, but their ability to combine accessibility and depth is reminiscent of groups like Riverside or Porcupine Tree.
Beyond the conventions of genre, “True Stories… and Other Lies” has a sincerity. Progressive rock with a heart of its own, it's technical without being arrogant and ambitious without being pretentious. In addition to honing their sound with this release, Pryzme also enhances their emotional resonance, creating an album that is both emotionally stirring and intellectually stimulating.