Reviewed by Ian Webber

Deciding where to start with this recording is difficult. These critically acclaimed progressive metallers from Georgia have crammed so much into this their fourth full length release, any description could sound disjointed. The album opens with swirling keys under operatic styled vocals, setting the scene for a recording that maintains an orchestral feel throughout. Fans of grinding, crunching guitar work will not be disappointed as these clean vocals give way to the well constructed "The Magnetic Sky" with its rhythmical riffing. The heaviest track "Internal Illumination" then follows with scratchy vocals and some chunky breakdowns. Along with these classic metal sounds, on other tracks we are also treated to melodic synths, electronic samples and an unexpected ska outro to "Cardiac Rebellion". This track is a truly inventive highlight to what is an album that contains something for all hard music fans. Well produced and full of lyrics that poetically describe a faith perspective on end times there are very few weaknesses at all. The album does however need to be listened to as a whole for all its elements to work together. Becoming The Archetype are a band on top form producing a recording here that gets better on each listen.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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