BY STEVE THIRIOT
In the pantheon of metal music where various sub-genres coalesce, transmute, and sometimes convolute, it's a rare moment when an album shatters the glass ceiling of creative limitations. "Evolvement" by Tegmentum, a well curated group of seasoned musicians from diverse backgrounds, is that rare moment— a sonic explosion that leaves a cosmic dust trail in its wake. Comprising members like Michael Ball on guitar, Chelsea Murphy on vocals, Kenji Tsunami on bass, and Andrew Baird on drums, this act is the epitome of musicianship par excellence.
Housed under the M-Theory Audio label, "Evolvement" sees Tegmentum performing a balancing act between progressive metal and technical death metal—a feat often attempted but seldom achieved with such finesse.
A Multi-Layered Epic
Right off the bat, "Innocuous" tricks you into a sense of safety, with a stunning instrumental arrangement. I wasn't quite sure I was reviewing a metal album at first; The softness and emotion in this track cuts to your very soul. at some point near the end, the mood changes, you know something is about to happen. As if you were strapped to a rocket and the countdown already begun; Then “Moments Ago” punches you in the face with its incredible precision. This track offers a compelling taste of the sonic palette that Tegmentum is about to unfurl. The swirling riffs by Michael Ball provide the ideal backdrop for Murphy's versatile vocals. One could argue that they set the table for what's to come, but that would be an understatement. They don't just set the table; they also cook the meal and serve the appetizers.
"Accolades" follow suit but with a more elaborate setup. The drumming by Andrew Baird feels like the heartbeat of some celestial body, while Kenji Tsunami's bass serves as the gravitational pull that keeps the stars and galaxies from drifting into the chaotic abyss. Make no mistake, this is a journey; one you weren't expecting, but glad you are on.
It's difficult to select a standout track in such a multi-faceted album, but "Amygdala" wins the title. It's a 7-minute 22-second odyssey that oscillates between dreamlike sequences and spine-chilling death metal growls. This track serves as a high-definition telescope, focusing on the microcosm within and expanding it to universal proportions.
The album takes a brief pause with "Emergent Properties," a 44-second interlude that barely gives you a moment to breathe but leaves you gasping for more. It's a palate cleanser, but one that leaves an indelible mark, acting as a sort of sonic sorbet.
The last stretch of the album is where the musicians let their skills truly unfurl. The complexity of "Genetic Assimilation" and "I Remain" encapsulates the essence of what Tegmentum is trying to achieve: the perfect fusion of melody and chaos. Finally, "Gospel of Sand," a 9-minute 23-second epic, serves as a fitting end to this magnificent record. It doesn't conclude the journey; it merely hints at the infinite musical realms yet to be explored.
"Evolvement" by Tegmentum is not just another metal album; it's a multidimensional experience that warrants multiple listens to be fully appreciated. It's dark matter in the ever-expanding universe of metal—a project so intelligent with artistry, it bends the light around it.
"Evolvement" is a celestial journey that transcends the musical stratosphere. Each member of Tegmentum has carved out their constellation in this galaxy of an album. Tegmentum craft a remarkable synthesis of technical mastery and unfettered creativity.
Fucking Hell!, It's rare that an album takes my breath away from the get go. This album and more importantly, This band Is Sick!!!
Listen to the Album on SPOTIFY