Paradox generates melodic hard rock, with introspective lyrics.
author: Sharla Cartner/ punkglobe.com/ musicfanbiz.com
Paradox
Reviewed By: Sharla Cartner
Band Members:
Pete Mac - Vocals, Guitars, Bass (for albumz)
Mike Mac - Vocal Harmonies, Drums
John Fin - Bass
This Irish trio Paradox is an alternative hard rock band. With influences from Jeff Buckley, Alice in Chains, Nirvana, Pearl Jam and The Tea Party, Paradox constructs their own developing sound of hard rock. Paradox has a solid fan base and has received airplay on radio stations, and rave reviews around the globe.
Paradox explodes with high intensity with screaming guitar riffs and solid drumming but there is more to this band than musical talent. Paradox generates melodic hard rock, with introspective lyrics and intricate melodies. The vocals of Pete Mac are delivered with solid feeling and sincerity. The two tracks Downward Spiral and Lame and Languid are from the album Sacred. Lame and Languid possess some sweet acoustic guitar riffs and loaded with emotion. Downward Spiral is energetic, with infectious riffs and the vocals grind out the lyrics.
"Is it time for me, is it time for you." - Lame and Languid
If you love hard rock music, check out Paradox:
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These brothers are extremely talented!!
author: Two Way Monologues
Paradox is a two-brother team originally from Cork, Ireland who do all of the work on their second release, Sacred. Pete and Mike Mac played all of the instruments for all the studio work for both this and their first album, Circle of Growth. Mike does all the percussion and backing vocals while Pete does the guitar, bass and lead vocals.
It is interesting – although Sacred was released in 2004 there are times when I felt like I’d been transported back to the mid-1990s. They do classify themselves as alternative/grunge/rock. Yes, Grunge. The band started in 1996; so that would explain it.
The music – though slightly updated – instantly brings to mind the artists that Paradox site as being their influences – Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Silverchair. Then there are darker tracks that mix in their other, newer, influences, like A Perfect Circle and Auf der Maur.
“Lame & Languid” is a perfect example of the older influences – the high vocals and the quiet-then-loud formula is in place. The first half of the album is softer, then gets harder as it goes along, heading more into that metal sound, almost punk, too. “Downward Spiral” has a build up that reminded me right away of The Offspring’s “Self Esteem.” “Thorns of Rose” is probably my favourite track on the disc, probably the most metal-sounding song on it. Starting with a feedback intro, the song picks up into a heavy, catchy, quick guitar riff. There is even a moment at the beginning of this song that reminds me of Primus.
Although they are a mix of old and new, I would like to point out here that I found they were a lot like a band from that era, one that didn’t get as popular as the rest – but could have been -- Failure. Failure had a lot of that sound that you find in A Perfect Circle, with the atmospheric guitars that give a fuller sound. However, Paradox does make it a little bit harder, leaning more towards metal.
That being said, I still want to give credit where credit is due. These brothers are extremely talented, undertaking the producing duties too. This album is a great effort. The songs are really tight. The only reason why I would mark this down is because as much as they are trying to fuse together new and old alt rock, it is too familiar. When it comes down to it, there may be a little too much of the old. As I sit here reviewing this in 2006, I would never have guessed that it was released only two years ago. It sounds dated – and definitely by more than two years. However, I do enjoy it; maybe it’s nostalgia.
Score: 7
- Mistress Kara
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Whole band sounds killer!!
author: Fan
Hi! If I told you that those are the coolest tunes that I've heard. This leaves me pondering this, why aren't you signed to a major label?? Very pro-sounding. Excellent production and performance. Whole band sounds killer. Vocals are on and interesting melody. Get signed dudes or don't, but keep it together. You rock. I really like your approach and style... and I am going to add you to my playlist and check out some more of your stuff. I wish I had more to say or some kind of constructive criticism, but your songs are ready for the air waves.
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'INSTANT SUCCESS'!!!
author: Garage Radio
Instant success is the only term I can use to describe the destiny of the Irish band, Paradox. With tracks like "Lame and Languid" and "Infinite" these guys are sure to grace the scene with a pumped up version of the modern Alternative/Rock sound. As I listened I found new reasons to listen again. Obviously Paradox is dedicated to their craft. The mix is great and the power is incredible with a perfect combination of acoustic and electric to please nearly every taste. As Rock goes I always try to compare one sound to another, but Paradox is not a band to be compared to anyone. Pete's vocals are impeccable, beautifully accented by the rest of the band. Lots of great guitar accents and solid beats put Paradox on the top of my "next best list" and make for one killer rock band. Driven by melody and pure adrenaline, these guys are a commanding force in the new music arena. I really enjoyed reviewing this this band and, all in all, I can't find a reason to give Paradox less than 5 stars. I fully recommend listening to their style and adding them to your CD collection.
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