I've never really delved into the genre much so I don't exactly have many points of reference, but I'll give it a try.
-Not too wanky with the guitar/keyboard solos/etc or too rigidly written to the point it's just going up and down scales.
-I'm leaning towards clean but powerful vocals on this one, but growls/screams are fine if they are exceptional. Please, nothing that sounds anything like James LaBrie or any power metal.
-Bands with excellent/creative drumming would definitely be a plus. While he may not be a virtuoso drummer, Martin Lopez's work prior to his departure of Opeth definitely had some amazing drumming that stands out due to a lot of subtle things he does that adds a lot of character.
Any recommendations?
-Not too wanky with the guitar/keyboard solos/etc or too rigidly written to the point it's just going up and down scales.
-I'm leaning towards clean but powerful vocals on this one, but growls/screams are fine if they are exceptional. Please, nothing that sounds anything like James LaBrie or any power metal.
-Bands with excellent/creative drumming would definitely be a plus. While he may not be a virtuoso drummer, Martin Lopez's work prior to his departure of Opeth definitely had some amazing drumming that stands out due to a lot of subtle things he does that adds a lot of character.
Any recommendations?