The Pitch: New York atmospheric prog/melodeath duo Iapetus release their new album The Body Cosmic featuring Dan Presland of Ne Obliviscaris on drums. FFO: Fallujah, Insomnium, Be'lakor
What I Like: Prog fans rejoice; there is something here to enjoy from all corners of the genre. From Swedish melodeath-infused energy to the more subdued tones of Katatonia, raging hooks to acoustic ambience, The Body Cosmic is one of the most dynamic journeys you're like to take this year. At over an hour and ten minutes, it would be easy for this album to become a bloated mess, but much like the latest from Warforged, Iapetus manage to milk every second by constantly shifting gears. Just when any sort of boredom might set in, the band know how to keep things interesting by playing with intensity and pacing. As a result, there is so much variety when it comes to playing style and also vocal direction. Expect both clean and harsh vocals, and I particularly love the additional guest performances from Emi Pellegrino. She adds yet another layer of haunting, dreamlike aesthetic to the overall atmosphere.
Critiques: This album is still missing a certain something to step into 9/10 territory, but try as I might I can't quite put my finger on what. It doesn't linger with me as much as say I: Voice or a Blackwater Park.
The Verdict: The Body Cosmic is an exciting, engaging progressive journey that carries both thrills and thoughtful introspection. Iapetus have clearly put a lot of time and love into this album, and it is definitely worth your time.
Flight's Fav's: The Body Cosmic, I Contain Multitudes, For Creatures Such As We
- Review by FlightOfIcarus
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