XERATH

First and foremost it has to be said that Xerath have recorded a stunning debut album, excellent in both its execution and content. It’s great to see a UK band that can stand up to the heavy weight sound of bands like Strapping Young Lad, Meshuggah and Gojira whilst still retaining a sound of their own. Their ‘own’ sound is as much created by mixing two distinctive sounds into one, and this will be the crux point for how well you get on with Xerath. Think Messhugah’s polyrhythms mixed with orchestral/ keyboard layers and you’ll be able to imagine the sound. For some reason I find myself comparing the feel of some tracks to Gojira’s progressive tendencies and special mention must be made of the female vocals and piano in ‘Nocturnum’. The added emotion and depth (which carries on through the album) is welcome in the fact it feels natural rather than forced which, sometimes, when tried by lesser bands can be the case. When I first heard of Xerath I thought the idea behind the band sounded similar to Biomechanical but, unlike Biomechanical who demand your attention with their overblown (and excellent) sound, Xerath seem to be an easier listen – making their sound effortless in its execution and addictive to listen to. As I say, a brilliant debut album and a great place for Xerath to build from. Given the right exposure and the ability to grow I think Xerath could become quite a force in the international metal world.

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Candlelight Records

Album

I

Review by Paul Sims

RUNNING TIME:

39:31

RELEASE DATE:

25th May 2009

TRACK LISTING

1) Intrenity
2) Alterra
3) Nocturnum
4) Consequences
5) Interlude
6) False History
7) Abiogenesis
8) Reform Part I
9) Reform Part II
10) Right to Exist

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

UK

"Given the right exposure and the ability to grow I think Xerath could become quite a force in the international metal world."