There are bands out there that will break barriers of what is expected of a genre, and other bands that will work to perfect a genre that already exists – delving deeper into what made the genre great in the first place – and Aephanemer’s release Prokopton subscribes to the latter. This melodic death metal band from France is keeping the Gothenburg traditional alive with a collection of smooth and accomplished tracks that differ enough to hold our interest while remaining true to their style.
This unique blend could afford them the‘ favourite band ever’ for many discerning listeners.
Most of the sections are very traditional with the title track nodding to the giants of melodic death, but there are some elements that differ. The urgency of Snowblind, the interesting interlude At Eternity’s Gate and the epic ending of If I Should Die all showcase the band’s diversity and exploration of the genre and all of it is welcomed.
We have to also mention Bascoul’s vocals. A fantastic and impressive blend of the black metal screech with the drive and voracity of death metal.
From the first track, I become a fan. A perfect blend of the beauty of the music and the beast of the vocals. Hamiche’s writing is competent, insightful and on point – he knew what he set out to achieve, and he achieved it.
My only gripe is some of the melodies can lean on the pirate metal scene, but some listeners might appreciate this.
Suitable for those you need a dictionary definition of melodic death metal to convince their grandma that not all metal music screams about Satan.
Release Year: 2019
Label: Primeval Records
Category: Album
Country: France
Reviewed by Liam Frost-Camilleri
