ALBUM REVIEW: Folie – A Novelist

It is artistically healthy for every musician to absorb their influences from many different, often conflicting sources. Progressive metal, a reasonably niche genre in contrast to the wider metal community, prides itself in boasting a plethora of obscure inspirations. Unfortunately, modern progressive metal has seemingly solidified as a genre, now with its own distinctive techniques and features, and even its own sub-genres. This is unfortunate because modern progressive metal has entered into a second, or perhaps third generation, and as a result, inspiration is being drawn from within the genre itself. Much like genetics, this may stagnate development as an artist. Appearing in 2015 with the competent Portraits, A NOVELIST seem to be working towards putting the Louisiana city of Lafayette on the progressive map. With a focus on speed, melody, and dynamic song structures, they certainly deliver an eclectic and exciting arsenal to the scene. Their new release, Folie, four years on from their debut, continues this trend with certain conviction.

Despite a relatively slow start, A NOVELIST quickly launches into a strong opening trio of songs, expertly cataloguing the gist of their sound. A volatile mixture of sweeping lead work, blast beats, and soaring melody, it is certainly a combination to turn the head of any progressive metal fan. Of particular note are Ben Nugent‘s clean vocals, which elicit notes of some of the best of the genre over the years.

However, boasting a host of influences, it is easy to see where the album falters. As the album continues, it seems as though one has not actually heard much that has not heard before. The duo seem to have a hard time balancing the many creative wells that they draw from. Unfortunately, it can often feel a little forced, and it frequently seems quite obvious which particular progressive forebear they are trying to emulate. The nature of the band’s music demands frequent variation, and this, combined with their obvious influences, can often make transitions between sections quite jarring. Jumping from PROTEST THE HERO to BETWEEN THE BURIED AND ME to THE HUMAN ABSTRACT in the space of a minute or so can falter a song’s momentum, which, once the band gets it going, is a one of their stronger elements.

Folie is an ambitious album, to be sure. The band has quite clearly set their sights on the horizons with its conception and breadth of variation. Unfortunately, that is also the album’s major detractor. Because of the sheer volume of influences leaning over their shoulders, it feels as though A NOVELIST never quite break from the mould and embrace the progression element of progressive metal. However, the record shows a lot of promise, and is not without merit. The musicianship carries a level of virtuosity, and is executed brilliantly. Folie surely does not suffer from a lack of technical ability, that much is certain.

Folie is a record that a progressive metal junkie will either love, or conversely, grow tired of very quickly. It will tick every progressive box on the sheet, but one might grow bored of what can often be quite contrived, forceful emulations of their peers. Though Folie gets a lot right, it just doesn’t seem to expand much further than what has previously been done in the genre. A solid, competently executed effort, but can often feel a little soulless. It is a worthy addition to any progressive metal collection, but it has not added to the genre by any notable measure.

Rating: 6/10

Folie is out now via self-release.

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