ALBUM REVIEW: Apple Of Discord – Ghost Iris
Denmark’s GHOST IRIS have come a long way since the DIY band that rose to prominence in 2015. From having the most streamed Danish metal album on Spotify in 2016 to the greatly received Blind World album they have continued to go from strength to strength and show anything is possible if you are willing to strive for success. 2019 sees the long awaited release of their third album Apple Of Discord which is available now via Long Branch Records, will the four piece continue to climb up the ranks of progressive metal?
Apple Of Discord opens with a teasing title track that builds the atmosphere through subtle guitar work before bursting into a vibrant melody and punchy drums teeing up the proceeding track The Devil’s Plaything. Groove ridden riffs and abrasive growls make themselves evident quickly followed by soaring vocals showing exactly why GHOST IRIS have gained such a following during their short tenure. Their strength in diversity shines through as the tempo chops and changes. The addictive nature of their style is particularly showcased in Final Tale as the catchy beat transitions into a beautifully alluring chorus which will definitely become a fan favourite.
After The Sun Sets Pt II takes a differing path to its counterpart featured on the Blind World album as the quartet immerse you in a barrage of djent soaked riffs. The transitions between growls and clean vocals are utilised to great effect on this track, portraying a variety of emotions as it progresses. Beauty In Expiration continues the dark, jarring tone whilst integrating some further progressive intricacies along its purposeful stride. The vocals his that sweet spot that is guaranteed to leave you with tingling down your spine. The Rat & The Snake takes the challenge of making their sound even more ominous and graciously accepts with pummelling guitar work, thunderous drumming and ferocious bellows combining in devastating unison. The breakdown which follows borders on deathcore territory as it syphons whatever breath remains in your lungs.
Heaven Was Pure Hell drags you out of the darkness with some upbeat melodies whilst still maintaining its heavy edge and enticing energy. The vocal passages contained within this track are crying out to be belted live by an adoring crowd. Cowardly Pride brings further technical flourishes in amongst the bludgeoning riffs and inviting tempo. Operatic accompaniments and demonic growls add an extra level of intrigue to proceedings as the high standard shows little sign of waining towards the latter stages. Magenta Moon follows suit with charged drum bursts and hefty riffs segued into a sprightly hardcore vibe which weaves in and out of the chaos. Just as the midway point of the track bids farewell a ridiculously moreish snippet of guitar work grabs your attention with its fleeting charms. Virus leaves some of the most intoxicating grooves for the grand finale as the track instantly bursts into life. The melodic tones interwoven with the crushing energy remain a focal point from beginning to end leaving Apple Of Discord on a resounding climax.
GHOST IRIS have somehow found a way to seamlessly mesh an abundance of genre’s without it sounding like a complete mess and implemented it to perfection. Their ability to tread the tightrope between evil riffs and dynamic melodies is sheer brilliance and is a gift that is rarely executed as well as this. Apple Of Discord shows a significant level of growth from their previous material as they continue to effortlessly push the boundaries of their sound. Denmark and the progressive metal scene both have a true gem on their hands.
Rating: 9/10
Apple Of Discord is available now via Long Branch Records.
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