“Tethers are fashioned from silk that divides lessers’ distant glow.”
With their debut album in 2017, California progressive metal outfit Artificial Language had a running start. With their cinematic and highly technical soundscapes, they have been impressively consistent over the years. The six-piece return with their latest EP, Distant Glow, marking the end of a five-year absence.
A mysterious keyboard-led intro breaks into a groovy, djenty riff on opener “Two-Faced Star”. A funky concoction of progressive instrumentation is immediately engaging, with a seemingly endless supply of delectable lead lines from lead guitarist Charlie Robbins. The added layer of keys from Jonathon Simpson adds a much-appreciated nuance to the track, an element often overlooked. Vocalist Shay Lewis ties it all together with an excellent performance, with a flair for the appropriately dramatic vocal style that works to well with this style of progressive metal.
“Rain Follows” continues in evoking a sense of sonic intrigue. There really isn’t a dull moment, as the track keeps the listener on their toes with a steady stream of rhythmic switch-ups and melodic elements at every turn. Lewis’ vocals are as smooth as they are stable, weaving between powerful belting to soaring falsettos with relative ease.
Lyrically, the EP delves into themes of spirituality and despair. Delivered by this vehicle of melodic technicality, there’s a clear concept to this release. Its poetic lyricism portrays a character bitter and resentful, going between spite and despair towards injustice.
“They’ll turn their backs if it benefits them. As sons of the soil, there was no stopping what followed the plough.”
The band’s full range of sounds are on full display here, from its gorgeous Phrygian leads to the open ambient passages, even leading into crushing, cathartic breakdowns at points. Rhythm guitarist Victor Corral and bassist Josh Riogas hold down the rhythmic fort admirably, from the groovy, djent-heavy sections to the moments of airy atmosphere. Drummer Jeron Schapansky is unfazed by the unpredictable nature of each track, with a firm hold over the EP’s momentum executed with accuracy. The musicianship offered by Artifical Language is laudable, with every detail feeling intentional and well-placed.
Even at five tracks, Distant Glow flows with an impressive consistency. The EP is a splendid display of this anthemic, grand sounding style of progressive metal, no doubt influenced by bands like Leprous and Haken. It may not be a groundbreaking take on the style, but it’s one that is nonetheless well-composed and tightly woven. There isn’t really any moment where the release drags, cohesively flowing as one unit. Distant Glow is undeniably a delightful listen, packed with nuance that reveals itself after each listen.
8.5/10
Distant Glow releases on the 22nd of March via self-release. Merch and more info from the band can be found here.