The Rise of Arise from Worms: A Technical Metal Odyssey
Arise from Worms is a supergroup that promises an explosive fusion of metal subgenres, but does it deliver on its ambitious premise? This is the question I set out to answer as I delved into their debut album, 'A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction'.
The band's lineup reads like a metalhead's dream, featuring veterans from iconic acts like Incantation, Morbid Angel, Cryptopsy, and Dream Theater. With such a star-studded cast, one might expect a seamless blend of death metal, progressive elements, and virtuosic instrumentation. However, the reality is a bit more complex.
A Melting Pot of Influences
Arise from Worms' sound is a whirlwind of influences, from the serpentine riffs of Morbid Angel to the sugary speed of DragonForce. The band's keyboardist, Derek Sherinian, adds a progressive twist with hints of Dream Theater, but the overall atmosphere remains dark and menacing. I'd liken it to Necrophagist with a keyboard-driven twist and a tendency for showboating.
This eclectic mix of styles is intriguing, but it's also a double-edged sword. On one hand, it showcases the band's versatility and willingness to experiment. On the other, it can lead to a lack of cohesion, making the album feel like a series of impressive yet disjointed moments.
Technical Brilliance, Songwriting Conundrums
There's no denying the technical prowess on display. Sonny Lombardozzi's guitar work is a standout, with shredding that would make Yngwie Malmsteen proud. From the frenzied solos to the intricate bass lines, Lombardozzi's playing is a masterclass in speed and dexterity. Flo Mounier's drumming is equally impressive, combining furious double bass rolls with jazz-infused finesse. These performances are the album's undeniable highlights.
However, the album suffers from a common pitfall of technical metal: the songwriting doesn't always match the musicianship. While tracks like 'Forgotten Kings' and 'Laolongtou' showcase the band's virtuosity, they fail to develop into memorable songs. The album's shorter runtime, at around 36 minutes, doesn't help either, leaving listeners wanting more substance.
Production Values and Promise Unfulfilled
One aspect that deserves praise is the production quality. 'A Bleeding Tree' sounds crisp and clear, allowing each instrument to shine without sacrificing the raw energy that metal demands. This is a welcome departure from the muddy production that sometimes plagues technical death metal.
Despite the stellar performances and production, the album falls short of its lofty ambitions. The band claims to break new musical ground, but the songs often feel more like technical exercises than fully realized compositions. It's as if the musicians are showcasing their skills rather than crafting songs that resonate on an emotional level.
Final Thoughts: Potential Unlocked?
As a fan of technical metal, I appreciate the talent and ambition behind Arise from Worms. Their debut album is a showcase of individual brilliance, but it struggles to find its identity as a cohesive unit. The songwriting needs refinement to match the technical wizardry, and the band's promise of novel harmonies and time signatures remains largely unfulfilled.
Personally, I believe Arise from Worms has the potential to evolve into something extraordinary. With a more focused approach to songwriting and a tighter integration of their diverse influences, they could create something truly groundbreaking. For now, 'A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction' is an impressive display of skill, but it leaves me wanting more in terms of substance and emotional impact.
