This review takes us onto a new, but exciting venture, to Mexico ! DropDestiny comes to us from Mexico City and have created a concoction of progressive rock, hard rock, and pop that is truly enjoyed by a wide audience. They have already scored major gigs such as the World Music Expo, La Feria de Tlaxcala, Teatro Metropolitan, and Soundcheck Xpo. This quintet, fronted by lead singer Lizbeth Bivanco have shared the stage with Mexican powerhouses like DLD, and Ha-Ash, only to name a couple.
One of the main reasons I dig this band is due to the fusion they have created amongst themselves. This five member band all bring their individual talents into one sound. As mentioned, front woman Lizbeth Bivanco has such a wide vocal range that's accepted in the pop world as well as the rock world. Her ability to switch from soft melodies to an edgy chorus is simply, second to none.
If I may say so, Nayeli Rugarcia on the keyboards is insane ! It is obvious her influence emerges from the progressive rock genre. Some crazy runs and fills in the music are what give this band it's distinct sound.
One of the instruments I hold dear to myself is the drums. Julio Serrano is king ! In the track, "Volar" the technique, the accents, the rolls and fills only remind me of one of my personal favorite drummers, Alex González of Maná. When in his element, he becomes one with the drums, I dig this !
Another Prog influenced musician is bass player, Serge Scherman. If I can cut all the music and simply listen to the bass guitar, it'd be sending chills. I only wish I had access to their third track "Lo Que Has Perdido" because I really enjoy the sample where he's doing an amazing job.
Lead guitarist Ángel Avalos is a true veteran of his instrument. I absolutely love the staccato fingering that gives the music it's hard rock edge. Avalos gives DropDestiny it's rock feel.
Despite the experience these individuals each bring to the band, they only have a couple of songs under their belt, (at least what I got ahold of). We will break down two of three tracks from their EP entitled, "Soñar" (Dream). The first of the two is "Dime" (Tell Me). The second of the two is "Volar" (Fly), which happens to be one of my favorites.
Alright, so "Dime" at the intro hits us with a steady synth sequence right before Serrano lays down a steady rock beat. The time signature changes on this track are quite advanced and well defined. As Lizbeth eases her vocals in, it quietly shifts into a softer melody. On different levels I can listen to the influence of Evanescence. From the vocal changes, to a staccato rock guitar, alongside the driving bass and drums this tracks proves a great one !
"Volar" has become my favorite, thus far. Right out of the book of progressive rock, Nayeli Rugarcia owns the melody. As the band quickly follows, I absolutely love those 16th note fills ! Again, Bivanco brings a gorgeous melody that balance the hard rock. "Volar" speaks of the desire of wanting to fly, despite having your feet on the ground. The piano fill by Rugarcia followed by Serrano's steady drum rolls on minute 2.20 make this an incredible feature to the track.
There is a third track I have not been able to get ahold of entitled, "Lo Que Has Perdido" (What You Have Lost) which is only a sample, but from what I've gathered, Serge Scherman has great bass runs on it ! Much respect !
I am a bit familiar with rock music in Mexico and I can honestly say, DropDestiny should be requested and played by local rock radio stations. The greatest bands are the ones who individually perfect their craft and fuse it with others to become great. DropDestiny has done just that. Incredible, and I look forward to their growth and expansion on the music horizon.
The Scientist
"Either write something worth reading, or do something worth writing"
-Benjamin Franklin
"Hey Ho, Let's Go"
-The Ramones
*Side Note: I would like to thank my translator of this article and interpretation of the lyrics of whom this would be a bit more difficult to grasp. Music allows to break down all barriers as it has done with DropDestiny and The Skeptics Review !