“From the Higher Ground” is the latest EP from Moroccan guitar player Zack Abdi, and it was released in 2021.
The very short and condensed EP is an eclectic blend of influences, taking the best out of each of them. If one tried to put a label on what kind of music this is, it would be modern metal in its broad sense, mixing all the elements from diverse ranges of progressive metal, with a fair amount of aggressivity. The lead guitar work is sweet and tasty, and it contrasts the heaviness of the rhythm parts.
At first, the intro of the album got me thinking this would be another generic modern metal release like we see every day around the world, but I was quick to change my mind when the distortion kicked in in a very punchy fashion, setting the tone for a very unique metal release.
Djenty parts blend in well with more violent death metal-influenced riffs, the drums have a very distinguished groove that accentuates the parts needing to be pushed forward, and the bass is doing its job perfectly well. Overall the EP is very well balanced, between heavy grooves and soft and sweet melodies, giving you the time to breathe before coming back to punch you in the face.
The production is surprisingly good for a progressive modern metal release, as the tone is particularly aggressive, and it has an identity of its own, you can feel there was time spent tweaking knobs. The bass is a delight in all its dimensions, the playing, the tone, and the place it takes within the mix are all perfect. Altogether, the EP shows for a very promising project, it leaves you hungry for more, and i hope to see more very soon.
Zack Elabdi: Facbook
Release Year: 2021
Label: self-released
Category: EP
Country: Morocco
Reviewed by Oussama EL OUADIE
