Archsin comes from Ukraine and they move inside the blurry boundaries of the instrumental progressive metal genre. “On Death and Dying” is their debut EP and I can say that I am amazed with what I heard in this work. Based on the book by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, this EP will speak to the heart and mind of every progressive rock and metal fan. It begins like a record by Mahavishnu Orchestra, and soon takes its main form – it sounds a lot like Opeth’s prog passages! In general, it will remind you of the works by Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Tool, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai and numerous bands from the 70s progressive rock age (for example Rush, Pink Floyd, King Crimson, Camel, etc.), even the jazz rock fusion era. However, what will surprise you more are their fresh, nice song ideas, on which their compositions are based and built. The melodies are catchy, the riffs overwhelming, the solos incredible. All songs are highly inspired, but my favorite is “Anger”, which features a compelling saxophone solo! And what about the keyboards in “Bargaining”, they sound so sophisticated and mysterious! If you are a fan of good progressive rock and metal music, this EP from Archsin will mesmerize you. There are no words, but the songs tell so many fascinating tales! That’s a great beginning from this Ukrainian band, which gives promises for a wonderful future. Listen to “On Death and Dying” and you will have expectations from this band. The future belongs to them.
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos