Author: progsphere

8.5
Reviews

Atlanta’s Doom Metal upstarts LungBurner have landed firmly within the Metal scene as one of the newest modern bands carrying the torch of the blueprint that Black Sabbath created over 40 years ago. In particular, Sabbath’s first three albums are all over the project’s debut two-track single “The Rift.” The Rift – Single by LungBurner A digital only release, it wets the appetite of every doom metal fan and the excitement for what comes next. One of the highlights of the release is definitely its production. It is obvious that LungBurner reaching for a retro feel and are heavily influenced…

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9.0
Reviews

“Resilience” is the sophomore album by US progressive black / folk metal trio Wandering Oak, slated for the release on February 2nd, 2024. The song-writing prowess is out in full force here, each composition holding its own individual themes and feel and developing into something truly epic through subtlety and development rather than incessant symphonic layering, taking time to allow things to unfurl before bursting into that spirited sweet spot. Wandering Oak’s songwriter, vocalist and guitarist Robert Pollard is an absolute master of the crescendo, case in point being the opening “To Lir They Fell” spiraling towards one of the…

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8.0
Reviews

Bringing only the finest of elements from thrash, prog and death metal, Sea of Consciousness’ self-titled debut album is everything you would expect and then some. It is so full of speed, ideas and finger bleeding riffs. It’s hard to be able to decide on any stand out tracks, opening out with “Sea of Consciousness,” “Misconception” and “From the Ashes” all fitting very much in the technical deathrash metal league. Abuse of speed, aggression and the pedal to the floor attitude all come through from the off, you can’t help but feel pumped up by them! But do not let…

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8.0
Reviews

This debut full-length album, “We Are Doomed,” by the death/doom duo Seið hailing from Norfolk, Virginia, clocks in at just over 30 minutes. The journey begins with the formidable sludge of “The Sentry,” a seven-minute behemoth that surprises with unexpected melodic intricacies in its guitar work, while the drums confidently find their place in the mix. We Are Doomed by Seið Vocally, Seið could delve into murkier realms, but the over-the-top screams, remarkably decipherable, add a positive layer to the sonic landscape. Derek Avery on vocals and Zack Olander (handling guitars and bass) avoids falling into a monotonous drone. While…

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9.0
Reviews

Founded on the expected principles of overabundant polyrhythms, melodic-to-harsh vocals and atmospheric ambience combined with ultra-modern production techniques, Torrington, Connecticut’s Millennia is a band that should be closely watched by music fans all around the world. Afterglow – Single by Millennia The band’s recent single, “Afterglow,” is a part of Prog Sphere’s “Progstravaganza: Harmony in Complexity” compilation, and through its five minutes, Millennia serves Progressive Metal, slash, Djent affair, albeit with a fair amount of flair woven in. The polyrhythmic drumming, the jazzy chords, clean breaks and ambient sections so often displayed by TesseracT are all present. The guitarist (Daniel…

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8.5
Reviews

Born in Exile’s latest offering, “Major Arcana,” takes us on a trip through progressive metal. Led by the commanding vocals of Kristina Vega, this Barcelona-based band has elevated their sound to new heights, solidifying their place in the metal scene. Having previously graced stages across Spain, including the iconic Rock Fest Barcelona and Can Mercader Fest, Born in Exile’s evolution is evident in every note of this compelling album. MAJOR ARCANA by Born in Exile The opening track, “The Fortune Teller,” serves as a brief yet captivating prelude, setting the stage for the sonic exploration that follows. The journey truly…

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8.0
Reviews

With a penchant for 7 & 8 string progressive metal guitar, Scottish guitarist Gregor Docherty has recently unleashed his musical prowess in the form of his latest album, “Met by Empyreus Fire.” As the artist’s fifth studio album, this release showcases almost an hour and a half of meticulously crafted sonic eargasm that delves into the realms of innovation, darkness, brutality, and beauty. Met By Empyreus Fire by Gregor Docherty Docherty’s signature sound is a testament to his technical mastery, constantly pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved on the guitar. Renowned for his 8-string arpeggios, 8-finger tapping, lightning-fast…

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8.0
Reviews

French guitarist Cedric Vassal has unleashed a relentless storm of heavy and power metal with a touch of death metal, accompanied by breathtaking shredding, in his latest instrumental EP, “Inner Kingdom.” Comprising five tracks that traverse the realms of metal virtuosity, this release is a testament to Vassal’s technical prowess and his ability to craft a dynamic sonic landscape. The EP kicks off with “Awakening,” a short yet impactful piece that serves as an introduction to the intense journey ahead. Vassal wastes no time in setting the tone, showcasing his adept fingerwork and establishing the EP’s overall atmosphere. “Order In…

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7.0
Reviews

Hungarian melodic death metal/metalcore quartet D\SCORD has dedicated years to refining their sound, culminating in the release of the “Phobia” EP in December 2023. Several tracks on this six-song compilation have undergone a lengthy gestation period, and the growth and development of the band are palpable within minutes of listening. Phobia by D \ S C O R D D\SCORD’s unique blend of melodic death metal, power metal, and metalcore sets them apart, making it challenging to pigeonhole them into a specific genre. Throughout the EP’s six tracks, the listener is taken on a dynamic journey with constant genre shifts,…

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8.0
Reviews

UK-based alternative/industrial metal act Everything is Nothing has put out their sophomore EP entitled “Somnambulist” in 2023. The four-track release showcases the band’s innovative approach, drawing inspiration from the Morbid Angel formula, particularly influenced by their controversial 2011 release “Illum Divinum Insanus.” Everything is Nothing skillfully blends this foundation with elements reminiscent of Slipknot, Deftones, Nine Inch Nails, and Tool. While Morbid Angel’s departure from their usual style in the mentioned album might be viewed negatively, it’s essential to note that Everything is Nothing navigates this musical fusion with a unique twist. Under different circumstances, this release could be appreciated…

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