Allegaeon originated in Fort Collins, Colorado, and quickly gained recognition for their technical death metal style infused with captivating yet harsh melodies and extreme scientific fury. The band’s lineup has seen several changes over the years, but their commitment to innovation has remained constant. Their discography includes critically acclaimed albums such as Fragments of Form and Function (2010), Elements of the Infinite (2014), and Apoptosis (2019), and the critically acclaimed DAMNUM (2022) each contributing to their reputation as a formidable force in the metal world. Not to mention the incredible ability to throw curveballs into the mix such as covering classic bands such as Rush and YES in their unique style. Consistently pushed the boundaries of metal with their technical prowess and sophisticated compositions, their latest offering, The Ossuary Lens, is no exception, showcasing a blend of intricate guitar work, profound lyrics, and a seamless fusion of brutality and melody.
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Guitarist Greg Burgess says of the band’s sound:
“I think in the beginning we were a little more stripped down. Very guitar-forward, focused melodeath. Over time, I think more technical symphonic and progressive elements creeped in. Finally, where we are today is all of that combined, added with more ambient elements.”
With regards to the album itself, vocalist Ezra Haynes adds:
“Each song essentially is a different topic, however there is always a different perspective of death tied to each subject. Since the entire album revolves around this overarching theme of death, and the different viewpoints associated with it, we found ourselves very attached to the word Ossuary and since the album takes a look at death through different points of view, we found The Ossuary Lens to be very fitting for the album title.
We touched on some classic Allegaeon science-related topics, such as chaos theory and dark matter, while also strumming the chords of more introspective topics such as alcoholism, relationships, perseverance etc.”
The Ossuary Lens is a testament to Allegaeon’s ability to craft a cohesive yet diverse album. The tracks are meticulously arranged to take the listener on a journey through various emotional landscapes and sonic territories. The production quality of The Ossuary Lens is impeccable, balancing clarity and heaviness to ensure each instrument and vocal line is distinct yet harmonious. Allegaeon’s compositional approach is both ambitious and meticulous. The album features complex structures, time signature changes, and intricate guitar solos that showcase the band’s technical proficiency. However, the band also prioritises emotional resonance and thematic coherence, ensuring that the technical elements serve the broader narrative.
Following a brief and somber instrumental opener, The Ossuary Lens explodes with “Chaos Theory” led by flurries of intricately furious riffs, captivating melodies and thunderous drums. The album sees the return of original vocalist Ezra Haynes showcasing his versatile vocal abilities as he leads the barbaric charge. A key element throughout the album is the guitar interplay between Greg Burgess and Michael Stancel, combining a plethora of devastating technical riffage with screaming guitar solos and duets. Tracks such as “Driftwood” and “Wake Circling Above” introduce the use of both clean vocals and guttural growls to create a dynamic contrast between sheer brutality and soaring melodies, injecting an emotive element.
“Dies Irae” focuses on pure aggression with venomous roars, fiery guitars and a groove-laden stomp peppered with extreme technicality. However when it comes to brutal technicality, “The Swarm” wins hands down with a plethora of savage guitars, insane blast beats and ferocious time signatures which are chaotic yet enticing. A stand out moment is “Dark Matter Dynamics” which features Adrian Bellue providing meticulous acoustic guitar elements with a blues edge which brilliantly offsets the cacophony of rage and progressive grandeur.
The Ossuary Lens is a compelling addition to Allegaeon’s discography, demonstrating their growth and evolution as a band. The album’s intricate compositions, impeccable production, and thematic depth make it a standout release in the metal genre. Allegaeon continues to challenge and inspire listeners, proving that they are not only masters of technical death metal but also artists capable of conveying profound emotional and intellectual themes through their music.
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The Ossuary Lens is out on April 4th
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The Ossuary Lens showcases Allegaeon’s continued mastery of technical death metal, blending complex guitar work with thematic depth. The album’s mix of aggression and melody, especially in tracks like “The Swarm” and “Dark Matter Dynamics,” highlights their evolution. It’s a bold step forward, but does the introduction of more ambient elements enhance or distract from their core sound? Would love to hear thoughts on this shift.