KLOGR’s Fractured Realities – A Gripping Return to Form

Review By Glen Parkes

After a seven-year hiatus, Italian progressive alt-rock/metal band KLOGR returns with their most mature and intense release to date, Fractured Realities. Out on October 31, 2024, via Zeta Factory, this highly anticipated album showcases the band’s growth while retaining the core of their sound that fans have come to love.

KLOGR, known for their atmospheric blend of heavy rock, introspective lyrics, and polished production, have raised the stakes with this latest release. The lineup, led by frontman and mastermind Rusty, delivers a stunning display of musicianship across all ten tracks. Their synergy is evident, as each member brings a distinct flair, creating a cohesive and dynamic album that explores both personal and social themes.

The album opens with “Early Wounds,” an immediate highlight that sets the tone for what’s to come. The track is driven by a gritty yet melodic guitar line, layered with Rusty’s haunting vocals, evoking the familiar, yet evolved, KLOGR sound. The exploration of pain and introspection in the lyrics mirrors the band’s own journey over the past several years.

“Gravity Of Fear” follows, diving into darker territory with a pulsating rhythm section that perfectly supports the song’s heavy yet accessible sound. This track hits hard both sonically and emotionally, revealing KLOGR’s ability to craft music that resonates on multiple levels. The band plays with texture and dynamics here, adding depth to their traditional metal approach.

One of the standout moments of Fractured Realities comes in “The Twisted Art,” which features a collaboration with Albert Eno. The contrast between Rusty’s raw delivery and Eno’s more delicate tones creates an eerie yet powerful duet, elevating the track into an emotional centerpiece of the album.

Another compelling track is “Face The Unknown.” It builds on layers of tension, with the guitars and drums driving a sense of urgency, while the lyrics confront themes of uncertainty and existential struggle—fitting for a band reemerging from a lengthy break.

“One Of Eight” and “Lead Wings” both delve deeper into KLOGR’s signature style, blending progressive elements with melodic heaviness. These songs reflect the band’s nuanced songwriting, seamlessly shifting from soaring, atmospheric melodies to crunching riffs, demonstrating their versatility.

The album also takes a more experimental turn with “Unspoken Words” and “Hysterical Blindness.” Here, KLOGR stretches the boundaries of their sound, incorporating intricate instrumental sections and ambient soundscapes. These tracks are rich in texture, with both featuring moments of sonic dissonance that pull the listener into the album’s more cerebral corners.

As the album nears its conclusion, “Waking World” slows the pace, offering a reflective moment before launching into the final track, “Whale Fall.” This closing song is a monumental piece, with its sweeping instrumental arrangement and emotionally charged lyrics, leaving the listener with a sense of catharsis.

Overall, Fractured Realities is a compelling listen from start to finish. Each track builds on the last, showcasing KLOGR’s ability to evolve without losing their core identity. Fans of Sevendust, In Flames, and Evergrey will find much to love here, as the album strikes a balance between melodic sensibility and metal aggression. After such a long hiatus, KLOGR’s return is triumphant, and Fractured Realities solidifies their place as a force in the progressive alt-rock/metal world.