How could I possibly ever let this new Scar Symmetry album pass by when they have previously released so much great material, with that power packed blend of melodic death and progressive metal. After the excellent Holographic Universe and the departure of their lead vocalist the band successfully carried on with two new members in the role releasing more impressive albums. Now the time has come for another, that is The Singularity(Phase 1 - Neohumanity) an album that is the commencement of a complex trilogy in relation to the future of mankind and technology.
The Singularity(Phase 1 - Neohumanity) is clearly an ambitious undertaking and to their credit Scar Symmetry are just the band to successfully pull it off, and offer something different in a sub genre in need of something fresh. Guitarist Per Nilsson's playing is outstanding, Jonas Kjellgren left the band last year and so Per has taken over all guitar duties on this new album. Per was also responsible for the music and splendid production and if he wasn't busy enough Per also plays the keyboards, while once again the lyrics are the work of drummer Henrik Ohlsson. I should also mention the excellent artwork and how cool the band members look in those semi cyborg states. The vocals are still a substantial component of Scar Symmetry's songs and both fierce growls and clean melodic styles are balanced perfectly.
"The Shape Of Things To Come" provides a short introduction telling of the "birth of the neohuman race", "Neohuman" gives us the first taste of Scar Symmetry's dynamic metal with Henrick Ohlsson's precision drumming propelling the band while Per Nilsson's sublime guitar work is so enthralling. Scar Symmetry gets the metal pumping on "Limits To Infinity" which features a cool short passage with some of their most destructive music, "Cryonic Harvest" and "The Spiral Timeshift" have more of that Scar Symmetry metal magnetism and the guitar takes centre stage next soaring on the instrumental "Children Of The Integrated Circuit". The music on the power packed "Neuromancer" is stellar Scar Symmetry are just so skilled when balancing that intense power with enchanting melody it never gets old. The album close with a raging metal track "Technocalyptic Cybergeddon" as the wrath of Scar Symmetry comes to the forefront and their futuristic storyline continues to unfold.
Scar Symmetry sound as awesome as ever, with more of that ultra addictive technical music The Singularity(Phase 1 - Neohumanity) is another spellbinding modern melodic death metal album, and I eagerly await the release of parts two and three.
See more about this release on our recent YouTube show!
Track Listing
1. The Shape Of Things To Come
2. Neohuman
3. Limits To Infinity
5. The Spiral Timeshift
6. Children Of The Integrated Circuit
7. Neuromancers
8. Technocalyptic Cybergeddon