CLANDESTINE – The Invalid

Every once in a while there is a band that is an innovator; a band that does not conform to a specific mold; a band that becomes a trendsetter. Clandestine is certainly one of those bands. Formed in 2006 in Los Angeles, Clandestine has produced a new form of Progressive Rock/Metal that pushes many boundaries. Their unique blend of influences is both refreshing and inviting for any fan. The Invalid is an “in your face” effort full of attitude and confidence. It features ten tracks of inventive and addictive high energy music.

Clandestine first hit the scene with a four-song self-titled EP back in 2007. The EP gained them some international recognition from the Los Angeles based-magazine Rock City News by awarding them “Best Female-Fronted Band.” Clandestine is led by the phenomenal young singer June Park, whose intense vocal style is a natural for the Hard Rock/Metal genre. Park has the ability to belt out songs in precise tune while pushing her vocals to the limit. Her bold and brash style is in complete command of every single track on the album. Additionally, she also brings to the table an edgy, Punk style image complete with multicolored hair and untamed clothing styles. True to the form of Clandestine, Park doesn’t just imitate other female Hard Rock singers; she possesses her own distinctive style and stands out on her own.

Being that The Invalid is such an eclectic mix of musical styles, all of the tracks stand out as unique. That being said, there are a couple of tracks that are absolutely amazing works of art. The opening song “Fearless” is the song that really sucks you into Clandestine’s power. The song starts out with the instruments all coming together piece-by-piece, and then proceeds to build and cultivate into a powerful climax, which has Park chanting in endless harmonies “Fearless, senseless, heartless, and careless … be ready to fall!” over and over again with amazing passion. She hits a higher key with every line and is able to create a very bone chilling melody.

Another great track that cuts to the core is “Phantom Pain.” This is a pensive and sad melody featuring more of Park’s extremely passionate vocals. Like “Fearless”, this song also builds up to a forceful climax and heartfelt chanting harmonies. This song is almost reminiscent of Shirley Manson’s melancholy songs from her days with Garbage. However, Park is arguably a much more gifted and diverse singer than Shirley Manson ever was.

The only thing that might be a turn off to Clandestine is the overuse of “electronic” or “programmed” sounds throughout the album. Other than that, Clandestine has created a well-oiled formula for producing a special blend of Hard Rock and Progressive Metal. To simply say “it’s different” is an understatement. There is a considerable amount of complexity to this band, and the overwhelming talent is admirable to say the least. If given a chance, this album will grow on you.