AUCKENROSE — Physis (review)

AUCKENROSE — Physis album cover EP · 2011 · Deathcore Buy this album from MMA partners
3/5 ·
J-Man
In the modern day and age of internet distribution, self-releasing albums and EP's for free download seems to be the way to go for many new bands. Rhode Island-based progressive deathcore act Auckenrose has used this format to release their debut EP, Physis, in March of 2011. The technical/progressive deathcore scene has quite a few mediocre acts releasing albums using this method, but Auckenrose is one that's actually worth more than just a passing glance. Physis is a unique and innovative EP with challenging songwriting and intricate details that demand repeat spins. For a free download, there's certainly not much to lose here.

Auckenrose plays a mix of deathcore and progressive metal, but delivers the style much more originally than you may expect. There are also a few touches of jazz fusion and post rock here that may surprise unsuspecting listeners. "Inhale Silence" is a brief progressive intro that segues into the much heavier "Awakening (Your Truth)". The alternating clean/growled vocals add extra variation into Auckenrose's sound and the musicianship is also excellent across the board. "Cognitive Dissonance" is the highlight track here - this is a generally powerful song, with an interesting jazz section in the middle that builds in a manner similar to that of Between the Buried and Me. The track does feel a bit inconsistent at times, but Auckenrose's adventurous attitude doesn't go unnoticed by me! "Archaea" is the heaviest moment here; this one is a straight-up deathcore assault. The final song contrasts quite nicely with the rest of the album. "Exhale Silence" is played in a mellowed-out post metal style and is filled with tasteful builds and unforgettable melodies.

This generally strong EP does have one major flaw, though, and that's in the production department. It's not unlistenable, but it is of demo-quality. The guitars lack bite, the bass drum often has a weird reverb, and the mix is generally unprofessional. Of course, for a self-released debut EP this is a standard complaint, but I have a feeling I may have enjoyed Physis significantly more if it had a professional production.

Despite my gripes with the production, this is an EP worth checking out (especially for free download). I have a great appreciation for innovative young bands like Auckenrose, and although Physis has its shortcomings, it's an exceptional debut from this American trio. 3 stars are well-deserved in this case. I'll be keeping an eye on where Auckenrose heads in the future.
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The Block wrote:
more than 2 years ago
I agree with you on this one

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