Review Summary: An exceptionally distinctive piece that deserves recognition.
Wide Eyes' album "Oneironaut" truly embodies that instrumental djent style, drawing heavy inspiration from sci-fi and space exploration. The soundscape it creates makes you feel like you're gliding through the universe. Wide Eyes stands out as one of the top bands embracing this sci-fi djent style, though the competition isn't too tough. Other artists like Modern Day Babylon and Widek also tap into this genre, but their approach tends to be more melodic and less technical, which is cool, but it sometimes lacks that edge. In contrast, "Oneironaut" weaves in all those grand sci-fi elements, with a production rich in synths that really enhances the overall aesthetic.
The riffs can really be excessively chaotic at times, which is actually a good thing. The wild riffs really create a sense of urgency that keeps the listener engaged. Many sections feel like those technical parts are well-earned, often followed by simpler, catchier segments. Take "Lucidity," for example; the guitar riffs dance around like shooting stars, yet there's enough repetition to keep listeners hooked. It's like a buffet of melodic brilliance and technical skill, both perfectly balanced. The album definitely has its share of stunning moments too. "Glimmer" emerges as an exceptionally beautiful piece that inspires a profound, contemplative atmosphere. It creates the sensation of floating through the cosmos, absorbing the immense expanse of the universe surrounding you.
The guitar solos really stand out, too; in today’s metal scene, it’s hard to be too distinct, but these melodic sections truly shine. The way they use slides and pinch harmonics gives it that signature Wide Eyes sound. Plus, the guest solo from Charles of Berried Alive fits in perfectly. This guy is known for his technical skills, but honestly, this might be one of his best solos yet. Berried Alive’s music has a unique twist, blending trap and hip hop elements, but on "Rampancy," it just clicks a bit better. It feels like a moment where a pilot has lost control of their spaceship and is spiraling into a void of nothingness.
Clocking in at just over two hours, "Oneironaut" is a lengthy listen, but it never feels like a drag. With this kind of music becoming rarer, I can't complain about Wide Eyes giving us more rather than less. Sure, some might think the production is a bit too polished, but it aligns perfectly with their sound. It does have a slightly robotic feel, but that’s the exact aesthetic the band is aiming for. The sound is super digital, and those drum beats might as well be programmed—chances are, they are. Each kick and snare hit feels meticulously placed, but honestly, it just works. That ultra-refined production style really nails the whole outer space travel experience, and it fits the theme like a glove. Overall, "Oneironaut" is an impressive work that fans of this niche instrumental sci-fi djent genre should definitely celebrate.
