Progressive metal enthusiasts marked September 15, 2023, on their calendars because Tesseract dropped their fifth studio album, “War of Being.” This highly anticipated release is a bold exploration of soundscapes and innovation, captivating listeners with its intricate compositions, technical prowess, and concept that will have you diving deep into the sonic abyss.
Production and Concept:
“War of Being” stands out from the crowd right from the start, as it’s not only self-produced by Tesseract but also features the skilled hand of Peter Miles. The album exudes a level of care and detail that could only come from artists who are fully in control of their craft. This level of autonomy allows Tesseract to explore new dimensions within their sound, evident in the bold choices that grace every track.
The album is not just a collection of songs; it’s an expansive journey. The band has expertly woven a concept throughout, inviting listeners to explore the many nuances of the album’s themes. Vocalist Daniel Tompkins’ dynamic range and emotional delivery play a crucial role in bringing this concept to life, backed by the virtuosic instrumental prowess of Acle Kahney, James Monteith, Amos Williams, and Jay Postones.
Musical Brilliance:
“War of Being” is a testament to Tesseract’s relentless quest for musical innovation. Each track showcases their technical expertise and their ability to create sonic textures that are both intricate and captivating. The album opens with the mesmerizing “Natural Disaster,” a track that sets the tone for what’s to come. From the ethereal “Echoes” to the intense title track “War of Being,” Tesseract keeps you on the edge, never allowing you to grow complacent with the soundscape.
The compositions are layered, with shifting time signatures, complex arrangements, and an ever-present sense of tension and release. The musicianship on display here is staggering, and the band encourages repeated listens to fully appreciate the intricacies woven into each track.
Critical Acclaim:
Unsurprisingly, “War of Being” has received widespread critical acclaim. Dom Lawson of Blabbermouth.net highlights the album’s boldness, while Dan McHugh of Distorted Sound calls Tesseract “frontrunners” and “flagbearers,” lauding the band’s talent. Kerrang! points out the balance between complexity and accessibility, considering it their most important album to date. Louder Sound describes the album as a “comprehensive masterpiece” that captures Tesseract’s entire emotional spectrum, and Wall of Sound praises it as an “experience” that delves into breathtaking heavy music soundscapes.
These glowing reviews underscore the impact “War of Being” is making on both critics and fans alike, cementing it as one of the year’s standout metal releases.
Conclusion:
Tesseract’s “War of Being” is an artistic triumph. It’s an album that will challenge your musical sensibilities, immerse you in its evocative concept, and leave you eager to experience it again and again. With their fifth studio effort, Tesseract has further solidified their position as frontrunners in the progressive metal genre. So, if you’re ready for an awe-inspiring journey into the realms of sonic innovation, “War of Being” is your destination. This could very well be Tesseract’s magnum opus.
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
