| Epicurean - A Consequence of Design
Record Label: METAL BLADE RECORDS
Release Date: Mar 04, 2008
Reviewed by André Monnéy
When I first heard about this wondrous band Epicurean, I was expecting something completely different than what I got. After hearing so much chugging guitar ridden metal, it was nice to hear something a little more on the eclectic side. Epicurean have drawn not only from these heavy metal influences that all metal bands today claim to aspire to be, but they have also taken from the one continent that is more prolific in metal than any, Europe. Rather than relying on the combination of break downs, mini solos, and grotesque heaviness, Epicurean have taken these European influences and made use of an instrument that is has been dumped on more in recent release, the keyboards.
Most of the bands out today have made the keyboard as useless as half of their bassists. It’s actually beyond refreshing to not only see the keyboards being used correctly and prominently, but in a metal band at that (sorry guys Drop, Dead Gorgeous doesn’t count). The man behind the keys, Jared Schneider, not only shows his fruitful use of his instrument in the band’s debut, but an understanding of music in general. I’m almost willing to bet that Schneider is not only a great on the keys but an all around good musician which allows Epicurean to expand their sound into a stronger use of layers.
“The Burden of Eternity” and “Darkest of Days” are examples of songs where Epicurean really manage to take their chivalrous metal music and add an eerie sensation with the use of the keys. Along with the keys comes another one of Epicurean’s key players, their lead guitarist, John Major. Major alongside his other strung partners (bassist, Eli Pete, and guitarist, Jarod Mills) takes the band to another level. His solos never seem forced or poorly placed into the songs. Once the keys begin to phase out from the frontlines, Major takes the opportunity to shred into the listeners ears leaving them all wanting more. More than nothing Epicurean as a whole, have an understanding in metal that not everything needs to be testosterone filled with nut-kicking, monstrous complexicity. Metal can be simple yet complex and melodic yet aggressive, a formula that the band builds upon.
With the use of such mastered skills, it wouldn’t come as any surprise if Epicurean were to rise to the top amongst their peers. For a debut album, A Consequence of Design manages to establish the band in a place where there is a lot of room to grow as a band and as individual musicians. Most importantly what Epicurean have done is brought the keyboards, melodies, and a fantastic understanding of metal back to life in a genre that has been belittled to breakdowns and growls.
Recommended If You Like: Children of Bodom, Cradle Of Filth, Soilwork |
