Review | Headless – Weightless

Independent video single release

Headless, the international progressive hard rock band formed by guitarist Walter Cianciusi, is known for blending AOR and progressive metal. Featuring notable members like Göran Edman (Yngwie Malmsteen) and Martin Helmantel (Elegy, 7 Miles to Pittsburgh). With the current line-up they are gearing up for the next chapter. This single, ,,Weightless”, previews their upcoming album `Transitional Objects’ and is a perfect calling card showcasing their constantly evolving sound, making this one to watch!

BRAND-NEW VIDEO SINGLE

Headless’ brand-new video single ,,Weightless” stands as a statement toward songwriter / guitarist Walter Cianciusi’s ability to blend technical complexity with impeccable melodic accessibility. The interplay between Walter Cianciusi‘s guitar work and Martin Helmantel‘s bass lines creates a rich tapestry of sound that is both dynamic and cohesive. The guitars alternate between soaring leads and intricate squashing rhythms, while the bass provides an equally impressive adventurous counterpoint while grounding the track in its heavy groove. Together, they shape a sonic landscape that is progressive and deeply engaging.

Isolated, Cianciusi displays insane craftmanship laying down scorching riffs with nesting licks, while the hooks drop powerful. He switches constantly in approach, making his guitarwork a stellar piece of art, with impressive variation and impressive clean pitches. Influenced by Dutch Elegy, which shines through on his melodic pitches and wonderful harmonies, he injects a note of power metal nostalgia and unique personal tone into the progressive construct of the searing track. At this intersection Martin’s bassline plays a crucial role in the song’s build-up and climax, as counterweight to Walter’s guitars.

RHYTHMIC DRIVE

Helmantel employs a dynamic approach, transitioning between the song’s harmonic structure its rhythmic drive. During the build-up it emphasizes consistent, pulsing patterns to sustain tension, while subtle chordal variations introduce anticipation. As the song progresses toward its climax, the bassline shifts aggressive, with melodic phrasing, aligning with the guitars and drums to amplify energy and emotional impact.

In this construction, Enrico Cianciusi‘s drumming deserves special mention for its power, precision and creativity. The progressive rhythms are intricate yet never overwhelming, locking in the groove, feeding of the basslines, adding layers of texture that elevate the track’s dynamics and complexity. His ability to balance technical prowess with a soulful swinging groove ensures that the drums serve as more than just a backbone. Rather they are an integral voice in the composition, making all instruments unite in the discharge of the song.

At the heart of ,,Weightless” lies Göran Edman‘s exceptional vocal performance. Edman brings a wonderful level of sophistication and emotion that perfectly complements the song’s themes. His smooth, uplifting vocal lines glide effortlessly over the complex instrumentation, delivering lyrics that explore profound emotional connections. His soaring croon adds volumes to the introspective sections and intensifies the song’s lyrical content with Göran effortlessly shifting tone to match the song’s raising stakes. Edman’s ability to convey textural depth without overshadowing the music is the hallmark of his performing abilities.

HEADLESS – THE CONCLUSION

,,Weightless” showcases Headless at their creative peak, blending elements of AOR, contemporary hard rock, with impressive progressive metal elements. The band’s chemistry is tangible in the veins, with each member contributing their unique musical strengths to create a track that feels meticulously crafted and organically inspired. The single offers a glimpse into their upcoming record `Transitional Objects’. We are ensured to be treated a collection of new songs that push the progressive boundaries while remaining deeply rooted in musical tradition.

The accompanying animated music video is created by none other than by Dime Stamenov who has created illustrious videos for Sabaton, Uriah Heep and Saxon. Visually ,,Weightless” captures the song’s themes which resonate with the energy and emotion poured into it. The comic book scenery switches bright colors adding to the emotions conveyed, while it harnesses a balance of uplifting imagery countering the frames of emotional introspection. There’s a lot going on to wrap your head around, amplifying the lyrical depth. Especially when Edman croons about the “…long summer nights” and the growling bass snaps onto the swirling guitar riff, the song locks emotions and spirit. It is a pitch onto the reverting theme and the song’s magical appeal.

For fans of progressive rock and hard rock alike, ,,Weightless” is not just a new tune, but it’s an experience forging a realm of expectations. Headless continues to prove why they are one of Europe’s best kept secrets and by far one of the most exciting acts in the genre!