Psyclops, the progressive metal band from Portland, Oregon, has released their latest album, 'Bound to Burn: Melody of the Martyr', and it's a thrilling ride through a dystopian future. The album's concept is a sun-baked Earth struggling to survive, with a wanderer searching for hope and imbued with religious allusions. The protagonist's journey is a chance encounter with a water deity that brings them to a wellspring of pure, untouched water. This concept is a clever twist on the classic 'cannibal gangs' and 'Elon Musk' narrative, and it's a refreshing take on the progressive metal genre.
The album is a technical masterpiece, with intricate guitar work and rhythmically dense progressive music. The band takes inspiration from Rush, Between the Buried and Me, and Opeth, while keeping their songs immediate and accessible. The three-song 'Consequences' segue showcases the band's ability to bounce between odd, frantic rhythms while sounding natural and 4/4. The 'Manifest' trilogy is a highlight, with diverse guitar work that dazzles without devolving into wankery. 'Presence from Beyond' and 'Clarity' feature awkward vocal intervals and off-kilter riffing, respectively, that make for effortless earworms. 'Begin Anew' showcases symphonic guitar arpeggios that rock out in an uncomplicated fashion.
The album's heavy and catchy nature, combined with its technical prowess, makes it a must-listen for prog fans. The band's knack for lean, diverse songwriting brings home the bacon, with a story to tell that is told without wasting time on interludes or masturbatory noodling. The album's influences, moods, and approaches are packaged in a way that feels cohesive and trimmed of all excess. The album is a good time, not a long one.
The album's pacing is well-executed, with 'The Explorer-Errant' establishing character motivation quickly and effectively, followed by conflict in 'Consequences II' and 'III', and a call to action in 'Clarity'. The song transitions are seamless, with every movement flowing into the next naturally. The album could have been designated as one song, à la Crimson or Winter's Gate, but it's still a cohesive and enjoyable listen.
In conclusion, 'Bound to Burn: Melody of the Martyr' is an adventurous, refreshing, and forward-thinking work of music and fiction. The band has stolen the concept album idea, but they've done it better than the author. The album is a must-listen for prog fans and a refreshing take on the genre. The sequel better have some cannibal gangs, though!
