Review Summary: Sylosis commercialize their sound on 'A Sign Of Things To Come' with varying degrees of success
Sylosis, once celebrated for their raw fusion of Bay Area thrash metal and technical death metal, appears to be venturing into a more mainstream realm with "A Sign of Things to Come." This album, while technically polished, seems to be a departure from the band's signature sound, hinting at a more commercialized direction.
A deep dive into the album's creation reveals significant influences from external voices. In a candid interview, Josh Middleton, the band's lead guitarist and vocalist, shed light on the role of the band's manager, Adam Foster. As an executive producer, Foster emphasized thinking from a fan's perspective, pushing for more anthemic and memorable hooks. This drive for a broader appeal, while potentially widening their fan base, might come at the cost of the band's core identity.
The collaboration with producer Scott Adkins further underscores this shift. Adkins, known for his work with more mainstream metal acts, nudged the band towards elements that would resonate with a larger audience. This influence is palpable in tracks like "Deadwood" and "Eye For an Eye." While they are well-crafted, they lack the raw intensity and audacity that Sylosis was once renowned for.
Middleton's reflections on the album's direction are telling. He speaks of wanting Sylosis to be a metal band in the vein of Pantera and Sepultura but with injections of extreme elements. However, the balance seems to have tilted, with the album leaning more towards universal contemporary metal. The track "Eye for an Eye," for instance, feels more restrained compared to the band's earlier compositions.
In the broader context, the UK metal scene has seen a resurgence, with bands like Architects, Malevolence, and Bleed From Within gaining traction. Sylosis is part of this wave, and while their evolution is evident, one can't help but wonder if they've sacrificed some of their originality in the process.
"A Sign of Things to Come" showcases Sylosis' adaptability and musical prowess. However, the album stands at a crossroads, reflecting both the band's roots and their aspirations for a broader appeal. While it's a commendable effort, long-time fans might yearn for the raw authenticity that once defined Sylosis.
