ALBUM REVIEW: Cataclysm – Redshift

The bar has already been set astonishingly high for progressive metal releases so far this year with the likes of DREAM THEATER and DEVIN TOWNSEND throwing down the gauntlet. But hoping to insert themselves amongst the top tier is Bath outfit REDSHIFT. Their debut album Cataclysm is due for release on April 26th – do they have what it takes to steal a chunk of the spotlight?

Overture welcomes a vibrant atmosphere accompanied by an immediate dose of instrumental intricacies. The melodies flow like a stream alongside the groove injected riffs and punchy tempo. Invasion dives straight into snappy shredding as alluring synths fade in and out of the background. Potent growls and soaring vocals coincide effectively escorted by an addictive pace and enticing lead-work. The unpredictable shifts in style continue to enhance the intrigue on show. Call To Arms combines lively power metal elements and smooth textures with dramatic vocal lines to increase the adrenaline coursing through the track. Impressive solo segments follow to throw a bit of chaos into proceedings.

Promises changes the pace with a calming piano interlude which possesses a relaxing but dramatic vibe. Ominous bells and swelling synths signal something may be lurking around the bend. Right on cue Fire, Smoke and Thunder comes hurtling in like a bull in a china shop with energetic blast beats and an energised momentum. Eccentric guitar work takes centre stage as it combines effortlessly with elaborate bass lines which frantically shift in tempo. May Fate Rest Upon Us possesses a powerful stride which features hard-hitting riffs bolstered by vigorous drum work. REDSHIFT showcase their progressive flair with flourishes of ducking and weaving intensity to keep the listener on their toes. 14 minutes seems to evaporate in moments as you are drawn into the captivating musicianship. The Last Stand builds the tension with sturdy bass licks and echoing guitar passages. The tastefully subtle melodies are so immersive that you feel like you’re delicately drifting away. The grittiness makes a return in the form of swift riffing and boisterous growls which are later wrapped in swathes of melody. The high energy levels are maintained throughout as each member has their chance to display their abundance of talents via varying excerpts of technical wizardry.

Cataclysm exhibits a wide range of diversity but in the midst of this approach some tracks suffer a lack of cohesion as the tracks jump rather erratically between styles. Despite this there are few bands to be as bold as this with their debut album and the instrumental proficiency is abundantly evident. This release may be slightly rough around the edges in places but REDSHIFT are not far away from becoming the polished article.

Rating: 8/10

Cataclysm is out now via self-release.

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