Amidst some heavy metal releases this month, I really needed something fresh and exciting to open up my mind. That's when our boys from Sweden, Digression Assassins dropped their newest EP "SAGAS" this week and I knew I had to review it. This Progressive Metal outfit has been active since 2005 and already has three full-length releases, adding a latest EP, on their discography.
The opening track "Nostalgia" begins with an upbeat jazzy vibe on drums and guitars which flows into a progressive zone, accompanying guitar lead sections on top. The beautiful vocals flawlessly fits to the aura and the atmosphere of the track. Halfway through the song, the tempo slows down to focus on the jazz-style drum fills and arpeggiated guitar riff. A melodious guitar solo acts as the perfect ending to the song. "Nightshade Delirium" has a rock vibe with the guitar leads dueling the vocal melodies. It flows somewhere at the end of heavy rock, but then pulls out itself at necessary times. The later-half of the song uses dissonant based noises on guitars creating a psychedelic and vertigo based environment. "The Empress" is a chaotic track, borrowing elements from its neighboring genres of heavy metal and math-core. With its unpredictable guitar phrasings and solo, the song perfectly encapsulates the madness of the band! The use of wah really gives a unique touch to it. Also, ending with a chanting vocal melody seemed quite an interesting outro to me. "The Longest Journey" gives sufficient time to build itself up. The main riff based on the whammy bar will be a takeaway. The vocals, along with the harmonies create an emotional soundscape. This album closure perfectly encapsulates the fact that it's not about the destination but about the journey, thus perfectly fitting the title.
The overall music has an upbeat and positive vibe to it. The guitars, mostly clean with minimum amount of distortion, borrow influences from many places across. The bass and especially the drums sound astounding in the record. To describe the sound of Digression Assassins is difficult. The guys definitely had a pretty fun time recording the EP, which is very clear from the energy the record carries. It is when you listen to their music, you realize how much of a unique band they are! "SAGAS" definitely is one of a kind and qualifies for one of the best releases of January.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
Website: https://www.facebook.com/digressionassassins
Genre: Progressive Metal, Progressive Rock
Worldwide Release: January 21st, 2022.
