Sylosis’ 2023 album, “A Sign of Things to Come,” marks a triumphant return for the British thrash outfit. Following a brief hiatus and a lineup change, the band led by vocalist and guitarist Josh Middleton delivers a potent cocktail of classic thrash influences, modern djent sensibilities, and the band’s signature technical prowess. “A Sign of Things to Come” is a thrilling listen that showcases a band firing on all cylinders, eager to reclaim their place at the forefront of modern metal.
Reinvigorated and Refocused: A Sign of Continued Evolution
Sylosis doesn’t simply retread familiar territory on “A Sign of Things to Come.” While the album retains the core elements that fans loved on previous releases – intricate guitar work, pummeling drums, and Middleton’s aggressive vocals – it incorporates modern influences, creating a sound that feels fresh and relevant. Tracks like “I Am Sylosis” and “Absence of Empathy” showcase this evolution, blending classic thrash riffing with djent-inspired breakdowns, resulting in a crushing and satisfying listening experience.
Ali Richardson: A Breath of Fresh Air on Vocals and Guitar
The addition of vocalist and guitarist Ali Richardson (formerly of Bleed From Within) proves to be a masterstroke. His vocal style complements Middleton’s perfectly, adding a layer of aggression and depth to the band’s sound. Richardson also contributes impressive guitar work, trading leads and creating a dynamic and harmonically rich sonic tapestry.
Clean Vocals Used Sparingly, But Effectively
While aggression remains the dominant force on “A Sign of Things to Come,” Sylosis employs clean vocals sparingly but effectively. The title track and “A Godless Throne” feature moments of clean singing that add a touch of melody and emotional depth, preventing the album from becoming a monotonous onslaught of brutality.
Production Perfection: A Clear and Crushing Soundscape
The production on “A Sign of Things to Come” is pristine and powerful. Each instrument is clear in the mix, allowing the intricate guitar work, thunderous drums, and both vocalists to shine through. The low-end is particularly impressive, delivering a crushing and satisfying impact on heavier sections.
A Sign of Things to Come: Living Up to its Title
The title track, “A Sign of Things to Come,” perfectly encapsulates the album’s overall message. It’s a statement of intent, a declaration that Sylosis is back and ready to dominate the modern metal scene. The rest of the album delivers on this promise, offering a thrilling combination of technicality, aggression, and modern influences.
A Must-Listen for Thrash Enthusiasts and Fans of Modern Metal
“A Sign of Things to Come” is a triumphant return for Sylosis. It’s an album that will please longtime fans with its adherence to the band’s core sound while offering enough fresh elements to excite newcomers. For those who crave a modern take on thrash metal with impressive musicianship and relentless energy, “A Sign of Things to Come” is a must-listen.
Final Verdict: Highly Recommended
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