Let's talk about the highly anticipated album, 'Waste Where Life Begins' by the Canadian metal band, Apogean. This release has a lot of expectations riding on it, and unfortunately, it seems to have fallen short of the mark.
When a band has a stellar debut like 'Cyberstrictive', which was an absolute masterpiece of technical death metal, the follow-up becomes a make-or-break moment. And in this case, Apogean seems to have stumbled a bit.
One of the most striking changes is the shift in sound. 'Waste Where Life Begins' moves away from the pure tech death roots that made 'Cyberstrictive' so special. Instead, we're presented with a blend of deathcore and blackened death, which, in my opinion, feels like a step towards a more commercial sound. The chugging riffs and tropey elements are a far cry from the intricate and jaw-dropping musicianship we witnessed before.
The lineup changes could be a factor here, but it's hard to ignore the jarring nature of this transformation. While there are still glimpses of their explosive past, like in 'Nassaru' and 'Hologram', the overall feel is that of a band trying to find a new identity. It's almost as if they've traded their sports car for a more rugged vehicle, losing some of their agility in the process.
Another issue is the album's length and structure. At just over thirty minutes, it should be a tight and focused listen, but it feels drawn-out and disjointed. The sequencing seems to lack a clear vision, and the unnecessary interlude, 'Ritual', only adds to the sense of confusion. It's like the band was trying to pad out the runtime, which is a shame because some of the songs stand strong on their own.
Despite these criticisms, Apogean's talent is undeniable. Mac Smith's vocals are a standout, with an impressive range of growls and rasps that keep you engaged. Doug Noel's drumming is also a highlight, bringing a much-needed versatility to the table. Their performances are a testament to the band's potential.
However, 'Waste Where Life Begins' feels like a missed opportunity. It's a disappointment for fans who were hoping for a continuation of the brilliant 'Cyberstrictive'. The band's decision to broaden their sound has resulted in a record that lacks the energy and technical brilliance of their debut. It's a classic case of the dreaded sophomore slump.
In my view, Apogean has the ability to bounce back and reclaim their place as a force in the metal scene. But for now, 'Waste Where Life Begins' is a reminder that sometimes, expectations can be a burden rather than a blessing.
