Review Summary: True Progression
"Progressive"
It's a term that gets thrown around a lot. Nowadays when we can't pinpoint what genre that a band is, we slap the progressive label on them and call it a day. But the term progressive, in my opinion, should be saved for only the bands who are constantly changing the definitions of music. For example:
Unexpect, Mr. Bungle, and yes, even
Tool. If this is the case, then some bands who have their own spin on music are wrongfully labeled as progressive. However, in the case of
Akphaezya, progressive is the perfect term to describe their music.
Although reminiscent of
Unexpect because of their mix of extreme music with classical tendencies,
Akphaezya have created their own sound. By incorporating influences from Industrial, Classical, Ambient, Jazz, and music from the eastern side of the world,
Anthology II is a diverse and truly genre defying masterpiece of an album. It must be said that much of the character that comes from this band, as well as most bands, comes from the vocals. Nehl Aëlin's vocals rival even my favorite vocalist (Julie Christmas) for the best female metal vocalist I have ever heard.
I could even dare to say that Nehl Aëlin could be the french, female Mike Patton (without all the side projects of course). Her vocal delivery is different with every song, and sometimes changes different genre specific vocals in one song; namely the switches between beautiful classical stylings to soothing jazz vocals, and then black metal-esque screams. The song “The Golden Vortex of Kaltaz” shows off her versatility, range, and control, while “Beyond the Sky” showcases her beautiful clean vocals along with her piano playing. And though I do give her much credit, she isn't the whole of the band; everyone in the band can be heard doing their part.
Stephan H, the guitarist, truly has great skill. You can hear him playing very jazzy guitar one moment, then heavy middle eastern influences, and before you know it, be listening to heavy black metal riffs, then finishing with a clean solo. It is this extraordinary guitar work, both electric and acoustic, that really drives the album along and never gets repetitive or stale. Now the drum and bass don't do anything amazing, but do give a great backbone to the songs. The fact that you can actually hear the bass after the production process is very nice. But honestly, other than playing fast, neither the drums or the bass really stand out.
To say that I am impressed with this album is truly an understatement. Akphaezya have brought several genres, unconventional vocals, and great instrument work into a cohesive, mind blowing package with their album
Anthology II. Anyone who calls themselves a fan of progressive metal, or music in general owe it to themselves to buy this album immediately, because it really is a progressive masterpiece.
