Da Vinci (Noruega)

Da Vinci formed in Norway in 2002 around Ole Børud on vocals, Bjørn Olav Solli on drums, and Emil Solli. They released their self-titled debut album in 2004, followed by 'The New Era' in 2006 and 'Progressions' in 2009. Their songs like 'Call Me a Liar' and 'Look At Me Now' show their progressive metal style with complex arrangements and philosophical lyrics.

The band's lineup has shifted over time, with guitarists Emil Solli and Espen Mjøen and bassist Mo joining at various points. Their 2006 album 'The New Era' drew some attention for its religious themes, but mostly they've kept to making intricate music without much mainstream fuss. They work in a niche where the playing is technical and the ideas are big, but the presentation stays fairly direct.

Da Vinci's sound builds on detailed guitar work and Børud's vocals, which can shift from melodic to more aggressive as the songs require. They don't seem interested in simplifying things for broader appeal, which has given them a steady if modest following among listeners who like their metal with some structural ambition and lyrical weight.