By: Stephanie Rosenblatt

When a rock band attempts a more progressive sound, it’s easy to create music that’s cluttered, overly complicated, or noisy. The result of Test of Will’s efforts, however, doesn’t sound the least bit scattered. Some bands experiment; this 4-piece rock group delivers music that’s original yet cohesive in their debut album, Scattered Leaves.

Their self-titled E.P., originally released in 2006, featured the first four songs on Scattered Leaves, but this full-length debut is the true testament to this band’s talent. Blending in jazz, funk and metal, Test of Will crafts 12 unique songs that push the normal envelope of the alternative rock genre.

One of Test of Will’s strongest points is their song composition. Absence is the perfect example of how these four musicians build up emotion at the right moments, mirroring the struggle of someone dealing with a lost lover.

In heavier tracks, like “Solids Collide,” “Now or Never” and “Gnosis,” the soaring vocals are powerful and addicting. Even if you normally avoid harsh vocals, the way Test of Will naturally weaves growls into their melodies may win you over.

“Vitroil” and “The Veiled Control” kick off with hard-hitting riffs, then the funk-inspired drums and slap bass drive to the forefront. The concoction of sounds plays out much smoother than expected.

Test of Will’s rhythms are catchy enough for the radio and complex enough to attract the more progressive crowd. Their foundation is strong, but they must shed all timidity and continue to push the normal boundaries of alternative rock. With their talent, there is huge potential beyond what they’ve already accomplished in this debut.

My picks: “An Empty Table,” “Absence,” “Gnosis,” “Scattered Leaves”