The evolution of progressive metal has been a fascinating journey, with TesseracT standing at the forefront of the genre’s transformation. As the British quintet gears up for their highly anticipated live appearance in Athens at the Gagarin 205 Live Music Space on January 18th, 2025, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on their groundbreaking career and the obvious impact they’ve had on the progressive metal and djent scenes.
by Dimitris Zacharopoulos
Formed in 2003 by guitarist and principal songwriter Acle Kahney, TesseracT emerged from the British metal underground with a unique sound that would come to define a new wave of progressive music. Their early work, characterized by complex polyrhythms, ethereal melodies and atmospheric soundscapes, laid the foundation for what would later be recognized as the djent movement. The term, derived from the onomatopoeic sound of palm-muted guitar riffs, became synonymous with bands that pushed the boundaries of metal’s technical and sonic potential.
In 2011, TesseracT released their debut album, “One”, which immediately set them apart from their peers. The album’s intricate compositions and haunting vocals, particularly on tracks like “Concealing Fate”, showcased the band’s ability to blend aggression with emotional depth. It was clear from the beginning that TesseracT was more than just a technical metal band; they were storytellers, weaving existential themes through their music.
The band’s sophomore album, “Altered State” (2013), marked a pivotal moment in their career. With Ashe O’Hara on vocals, TesseracT embraced a more melodic and expansive sound. The album’s seamless transitions between tracks and its exploration of themes such as perception and reality cemented their reputation as innovators within the genre.
In 2015, TesseracT released “Polaris”, with the return of vocalist Daniel Tompkins, who remains a cornerstone of their sound. This album showcased a more refined and mature TesseracT, balancing their technical prowess with emotional expression. Tracks like “Dystopia” and “Survival” solidified their place in the progressive metal pantheon.
While TesseracT had already established themselves as a formidable force in metal, it was their 2018 album, “Sonder”, that truly sent them to new heights. The album delved into themes of human insignificance in the grand scheme of the universe, delivering a philosophical experience. Tracks like “Luminary” and “King” became anthems, and “Sonder” was praised by critics for its innovation and emotional core.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, TesseracT took their artistry to another level with “Portals” (2021), a live cinematic experience that redefined the concept of concerts. The visual and auditory masterpiece showcased the band’s ability to create immersive worlds through their music, captivating fans.
In September 2023, TesseracT released what many consider their magnum opus, “War of Being”. The album is a concept-driven voyage that refers to themes of identity, conflict and resolution. The title track, an 11-minute song, is a contemporary epic that proves the band’s fantasy and creativity. The accompanying music video, a visually stunning production, garnered over a million views on YouTube!
With “War of Being”, TesseracT managed to amalgamate the aggression of bands like Gojira, the atmospheric elements of Devin Townsend, the melodic sensibilities of Architects and the technical brilliance of Periphery. The outcome is an album that feels timeless and indestructible, a rare feat in the metal landscape, an impassioned, masterful deliverance by one of the most forward-thinking, innovative bands of our time.
TesseracT are constantly evolving their sound and reinventing the progressive metal genre. Their refusal to adhere to musical norms, their willingness to explore complex themes and their ability to connect deeply with their audience have made them one of the most respected bands in modern metal.
Beyond their technical skill, it is their emotional authenticity and depth that are being appreciated by fans: TesseracT offers something human, not artificial: impressive songs that challenge, inspire, touch and move.
TesseracT’s upcoming performance in Athens marks a significant moment for Greek fans, as the band promises a memorable audio-visual show. The band’s ability to create an intimate and powerful live experience is unparalleled, and witnessing them in a venue like Gagarin 205 is an opportunity that should not be missed.
Joining TesseracT on this tour is the French progressive/djent/metalcore outfit Novelists, who have been making waves in the scene with their dynamic sound and compelling performances. An additional opening act comes from The Omnific (an Australian progressive metal band from Melbourne that formed in 2016 and is known for their unique lineup of two bassists and one drummer), adding further excitement to the whole event. As prog as it can be!
