The self titled album, a statement of identity and dominance. The territorial assurance representing the band’s ethos,having well and truly crafted a niche for themselves already.Psycroptic’s self titled effort proves that they are not only untouchable, but are still innovative.
Out of the ominous womb of the album, first track “Echoes To Come” is birthed, the perfect proverbial opening paragraph. Poised to attack immediately the listener is grabbed and not let go. Thrashing about with singer Jason Pepiatt simulating the howls of a banshee, whilst the encircling guitars deliver their legato lashings. Though where Psycroptic have perhaps faltered in the past is their sense of differentiation. With their new release were treated to clear divergence of their multiple personalities.
We see the hydra like heads of Psycroptic appear from the rhythm oriented “A Soul Once Lost” snapping frenetically at the listener. Introducing new ideologies, with songs like second single “Cold“. Experimentation with the Spanish style guitar, adds seasoning to the often bland platter that is tech death. Different songs distinguish the various facet’s of the four piece, some more straightforward fights to the death like “Setting Fire To Skies Above“, arguably the most technical we see the band on the album. Yet through the technicality Psycroptic never forget the sense of groove that the band deliver so effortlessly. Highlighted fantastically on blistering “The World Discarded” tiptoeing the metaphorical tightrope between musicianship and song writing.
Where before Psycroptic seemed to be a bombastic ball of irrational energy, their new outing is one of focused attack. Planned sections of guitar athletics Joe Haley or drum work from brother Dave Haley that would put even the most seasoned of drummers through the paces. The band also are beginning to flirt with different elements from the droning of “Ideals That Won’t Surrender“. Even adding in a sense of melody with follow up track “Sentence Of Immortality“. Proving that though the band may be known for their robotic technicality, the sense of emotion is not a mirage.
Psycroptic have not only crafted one of the most interesting technical death metal albums of the year, but one of the most interesting tech death sounds. Unique in their inception, the band well and truly asserted their position among the elite few in their field. Delivering devastating, pre meditated attacks on our senses that grow with every listen. Establishing themselves to the listener, ensuring that the band aren’t afraid to take risks and forward their sound yet know exactly what makes up Psycroptic‘s musical DNA. As the final echoes of what one day might well be of “Endless Wandering” ring out, the Tasmanian devils may be challenged but will always remain the incontrovertible alpha male. A stellar example of a perfect marriage innovation and conviction.
If you like what you read/heard then you can pick up Psycroptic’s brand new self titled album here!
