Imperial Triumphant, a New York power trio, has carved a unique niche in the metal music scene with their avant-garde take on extreme metal. Led by guitarist Zachary Ezrin, the band challenges conventional norms with their dissonant and experimental sound, often described as gut-wrenching and unconventional.
Despite facing criticism for being perceived as merely creating noise, Imperial Triumphant’s music is a deliberate blend of complexity and innovation. In their sixth album, Goldstar, the band aimed to condense their compositions to under five minutes, resulting in a more focused and potent musical output that retains their signature eccentricity.
One standout track, “NEWYORKCITY,” lasting just 30 seconds, showcases the band’s foray into free improv grindcore, highlighting their willingness to push boundaries and experiment with unconventional formats. Additionally, the inclusion of a blues solo on “Industry of Misery” adds a contrasting tonal element to their otherwise dissonant repertoire.
Ezrin’s choice of instruments, particularly his custom Gibson Les Paul Axcess model with a Floyd Rose bridge, reflects his quest for unique and versatile tones. Experimenting with Avedission pickups from Atlanta, Georgia, he seeks a balance between clarity and aggression, essential for Imperial Triumphant’s distinctive sound.
The band’s sonic landscape is further enhanced by Ezrin’s minimalist pedalboard, featuring essential effects like reverb, delay, and chorus. His unconventional use of the whammy bar adds a layer of unpredictability to his playing, creating a distinctive warbling effect that complements the band’s avant-garde ethos.
Imperial Triumphant’s musical philosophy revolves around creating an immersive sonic experience rather than adhering to traditional guitar virtuosity. Drawing inspiration from bands like Larvae, Immortal, and Gorguts, Ezrin embraces dissonance and chaos as integral components of their sound, emphasizing the collective impact of the band over individual technical prowess.
As the band continues to redefine the boundaries of extreme metal, their latest album, Goldstar, showcases their evolution towards a more refined yet uncompromising musical vision. Released through Century Media Records, the album is a testament to Imperial Triumphant’s unwavering commitment to pushing the limits of avant-garde metal music.
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