Apogean's sophomore LP, 'Waste Where Life Begins', is a bold and ambitious venture into the realm of progressive death metal. The band's promotional blurb hints at a departure from the confines of their genre, incorporating blackened, classical, and neofolk elements. This album is a testament to their willingness to experiment and expand their musical horizons.
The album opens with 'Daughter of the Oak', a track that sets the tone for the rest of the record. It's a fusion of chuggy Gojira-inspired riffs, black-metal tremolos, and a sense of melody that grabs the listener's attention. The addition of violin and choral textures by guest musician Laura Bates further enhances the atmospheric quality of the song. This opening track is a perfect example of Apogean's ability to blend different styles seamlessly.
As the album progresses, it becomes clear that Apogean is not afraid to take risks. 'White Trees, Black Leaves' showcases their talent for catchy black 'n' roll riffs, with slick drum fills and a rippin' guitar solo that stands out as the album's high point. However, the album's strongest track is undoubtedly 'Nassaru', which turns up the prog dial with dense yet infectious riffing and a winding composition. The inclusion of spoken passages by Joshua Ward, added posthumously, adds a layer of depth and emotion to the song, making it a fitting tribute to his memory.
The album's longest track, 'Black Smoke, Bleeding Earth', is a showcase of Apogean's versatility. It features a chorus backed by shreddy leads reminiscent of Mors Principium Est, as well as beautiful passages led by clean guitar and violin. However, the song is preceded by 'Ritual', an ambient interlude that feels out of place and disrupts the flow of the album.
Despite some minor missteps, 'Waste Where Life Begins' is a solid album that showcases Apogean's talent and willingness to experiment. The band's ability to blend different styles seamlessly and create concise, tight compositions is commendable. While the album may not be groundbreaking, it is a solid addition to the progressive death metal scene and a testament to the band's potential.
In my opinion, Apogean has successfully expanded their musical horizons with this album, and it is a must-listen for fans of progressive death metal and those who appreciate experimental music. The album's diverse elements and concise compositions make it a solid 6.5/10, and I look forward to seeing what the band does next.
