Combining unoriginal elements (Meshuggah-like vocals and grooves, Strapping Young Lad
elements, and orchestrations) to make something new, Xerath create an enjoyable album that
will be a fun occasional listen, but nothing too special.
There's nothing special about it. With all of the talk the band makes about how Epic and Cinematic they are trying to make their music, all they end up doing is giving us another repetitive action movie. It's fun the first listen but there's really no substance and consequently no reason to keep it in your music rotation.
This album got 6/6 and album of the year in Scream Magazine. Well, they're definitely original, and do what they do very well. Think symphonic Meshuggah, and add a bit more varied guitar work. Well executed and worthy of a 4, maybe it'll grow on me even more later on.
Amazing debut album. Such a clear and confident sound.
I cant wait to hear the next, hoping they will change it up a little bit to the likes of "Alterra".
This band is known for blending math metal with orchestra movements and that is exactly what this album comprises of. Think of modern acts such as Textures and Hacride but with a symphony. However, this does mean that the atmosphere from Textures and Hacride are missing from Xerath. There is almost no room for such element since the orchestra takes over whenever the guitars are resting.
Definitely can be described as Symphonic Meshuggah. The band tends to play it safe in general with the orchestral arrangements and pretty much every other department. Vocals are just there (like Meshuggah) but with a little more variety (some shrieking and/or singing on a couple songs). All in all, nothing amazing, but executed well.
