ALBUM REVIEW: Myth of I – Myth of I

With the amount of technical, progressive metal releases being manufactured like toilet paper nowadays, one can easily overlook many of new recordings that offer a creative take on, for many, usually dull genre. After two singles and an EP, Boston instrumentalists MYTH OF I return with the full-length, self-titled debut launched via The Artisan Era.

For those unaware of the quartet, MYTH OF I soak their toes in a finely produced mixture of progressive metal and technical death metal, with the carefully placed melodies over the crushing rhythm guitars and nothing less pounding  rhythm section. If 2017’s EP S.T.E.M. showcased the band’s more intense side comprised of giant riffs, the self-titled album brings a cohesive package that’s been well-thought without sacrificing intensity.

Kicking this off with with an ambient intro Pandora, MYTH OF I go right for the throat with The Illustrator – a cannonade of larger-than-life riffs that are followed by an immaculate execution by drummer Matt Lippa. As hinted, guitarists Jennings Smith and Tyler Fritzel are absolutely on fire, always backing up one another with the exchange of tension-building riffs and electrifying solos. Songs on Myth of I segue flawlessly, giving the album a cinematic feeling  supported by plethora of small ambient pieces.

One of the most exceptional details of Myth of I is the record’s potential to produce so many contrasting pieces and put them into a cohesive whole. Perfectly produced and bringing into play substantial aural mass, songs such Glass Castles and The Maze move through genres with ease, playing with progressive metal, symphonic arrangements, deathcore and even some jazzy noodles. Numbers like Cherophobia and closing Panzer greet the listener with even more progressive greatness. 

Myth of I will be a tough competitor as one of the strongest releases of the year, and it won’t be a surprise if many decide to put it in the top 10 of yearly “Album Of The Year” lists. The riffs are intense, heterogeneous and sharp, the production work displays an exciting equilibrium of heaviness and purity, and the musicianship is exceptionally good through-and-through. MYTH OF I have managed to put accessibility in technical, progressive music, something that certainly doesn’t happen too often – especially when talking about instrumental releases. As the album nears the end, it becomes clear that the Bostonians are not here for pure technical wankery; a fair volume of atmosphere and emotion is invested as an answer to the otherwise ferocious music. A very rewarding listen.

Rating: 9/10

Myth of I is set for release April 10th via The Artisan Era.

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