Kick ass review from Metal Perspective:
Frantic Bleep is a new band from Norway and "The Sense Apparatus" is their debut CD. Prior to this they had only the demo-CD "Fluctuadmission", which lead them to signing a contract with the U.S. based The End Record (another good signing for T.E.R.).
I found this band when I followed the traces of Paul Mozart Bjørke (vocals, bass), who is member of Madder Mortem (this is another chapter that we will open in a few months, when their new album will be released). I didn't know what to expect. I mean I knew that this was about some kind of progressive music, but I could know exactly what. Even now, after numerous listening sessions, I still can't comprehend the width and depth of their music. It is very difficult listening, which claims for your ultimate concentration. I cannot resemble their music to some other's band and I consider that they are unique in the way Cynic or Psychotic Waltz were for their age. To me, this is one of the best debuts ever. A very mature record, which is so complex that none description will be enough to cover its multi-dimensional nature. Their music is very passionate and intense. Do not expect something ordinary or some technocratic band that performs clinically their compositions. "The Sense Apparatus" is a dramatic exposition of soul and mind, thanks to Paul Mozart Bjørke's vocal lines, his countless transitions among various modes (low tuned, somber, angered etc) and the adventurous compositions of Patrick Scantlebury (guitars, synth). I cannot distinguish any song, simply because each one of them is so different from the rest. Aggressive thrashy riffs are shifting with piano melodies and then to swirling riffs that every prog-metal metal band would jealous. Patrick Scantlebury is also responsible for the production and despite his young age it seems that he knows better than anyone how the music of his band should sound. The whole package is appealing from the very first moment thanks to the astounding artwork of Christian Ruud. Another meaningful
credit (especially for those who are aware of this divine voice) is that Agnete M. Kirkevaag from Madder Mortem is contributing with some background vocals.
As a conclusion I would like to note that, even in metal, the industry of clones prevails (be it NWOSDM, be it Power Metal, be it Black it's all the same). But we still have some alternatives. I suggest strongly Frantic Bleep to all those who are uneasy and worried, who seek for something qualitative.
Rate: 9,5/10
Giannis Tsakonas
http://www.metalperspective.com/reviews/frantic_bleep.php