UK-based
death metal band, The HAARP Machine combines technical death metal and
mind-bending prog with a flair for the melodic for one of the most impressive
debuts to come across my desk in ages. “Disclosure” is a tech-death total
package written by a band capable of crafting intriguing and dynamic tunes that
rely more on intelligent structure, originality and mood than senseless fret board
gymnastics to get over.
The
vocals range from impassioned croons to beast-like growls. This diverse and
soulful approach lends a human element to the machine. This is a nice contrast
to the calculated precision with which guitarist Al Mu’min wields his
instrument. One of the more intriguing guitarists in metal today, Mu’min is
rarely a loss for crushing and intricate riffs, many of which he textures with
hints of prog rock or exotic, Middle-Eastern flavors. These little twists and turns,
along with bits of studio trickery and ambient noise, add depth to the music
without becoming distracting. But even without all the bells and whistles,
these guys are skilled enough songwriters that even the most dizzying display
of musical showmanship is delivered tastefully.
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