Dilemma's 2018 album Random Acts Of Liberation was their first in 22 years. Now with frontman Jermain van der Bogt - aka Wudstik - and bassist Kristoffer Gildenlow on board, they deliver a superior successor in The Purpose Paradox.
Opener Sanctuary establishes the blueprint of intense yet spacey instrumentation and soaring vocals, with a captivating blend of interlocking keyboard and guitar riffs complementing dynamic rhythms and impassioned singing.
The rest of the album doesn't deviate substantially from that formula, but there are some notable change-ups, especially on Thunder, a mostly delicate ballad whose gentle arrangement allows Wudstik's harmonies to take centre-stage.
Allies and multipart closer Outer Light are similarly modest and vulnerable
compared to the hectic empowerment of the other tracks, yet they're amped up a
bit thanks to stunning solos from guest keyboardist Derek Sherinian and
guitarist Mark Lettieri.
Although The Purpose Paradox
could be more varied overall, its heartfelt, nuanced and adventurous charm
proves that this is easily the best iteration of the band so far.
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