WITHOUT WARNING - STEP BEYOND - 1998

WITHOUT WARNING formed in the early 90s, in Upstate New York. Drummer Steve Michael had studied under fellow Long Islander Mike Portnoy of DREAM THEATER, so it's not surprising the two bands share many characteristics. However, the superlative guitarmanship of Ted Burger, Vinnie Fontanetta's textural keyboards, and Graham Thompson's intricate bass work carves a noticeably different sonic signature, a bit harder and thicker texturally than DT. Out of this foundation bursts the distinctive voice of Jack Bielata, who sounds like few before him - at times he actually produces two simultaneous notes.

"Making Time" (1993) was their first release, establishing the hard but melodic progressive metal sound and generating much interest, especially in Europe and Japan. The following releases "Believe" (1995) and "Step Beyond" (1998) had a much improved production, letting listeners hear even more of the musical intricacies. Difficult to track down and always on the verge of breakup (due to outside concerns rather than any strife within the band), it is difficult to say if they are still functional today. (There is a southern rock band of the same name, making playing detective even more frustrating).

I am a little biased towards this band - I was a friend and roadie for a while before and during the time of their first release, and they are great guys in addition to being stellar performers. I'm not usually a big fan of the metal genre but I respect their musicianship and highly recommend a listen to any progressive metal fans (if you can find their albums).
http://www.progarchives.com