Album Review: 1349 - The Wolf And The King
1349 are a band who have the soul intention and vision to maintain the legacy of black metal and their
Canadian prog The Wring are pleased to release their much-anticipated fourth studio album “Nemesis”. This album marks a significant step in the band’s journey, showcasing a more cohesive and refined sound that blends their heavy rock roots with progressive and jazz influences.
Canadian prog The Wring are pleased to release their much-anticipated fourth studio album “Nemesis”. This album marks a significant step in the band’s journey, showcasing a more cohesive and refined sound that blends their heavy rock roots with progressive and jazz influences. With eight tracks spanning just over 40 minutes, “Nemesis” adds a new, technical twist to progressive metal. Guitarist Don Dewulf comments:
“Thematically, Nemesis speaks to conflict of all sorts. Musically, there is a similar conflict of musical styles. The central idea of every Wring album is to combine many genres in a single song, so while nothing is new, hopefully, the combination can seem fresh or different. For many listeners, even the most dedicated, certain musical stylings are an onerous listen – jazz, prog, even classical. The idea of Nemesis is to give the listener a way to enjoy odd times, peculiar harmony, and aggressive riffs without having to give up their soul to do it. The backbone of every song is firmly rooted in traditional hard rock so there is always something to grab onto.”
“Nemesis” explores themes of conflict, both external and internal, with each song representing a different facet of the struggles we face. From the driving intensity of tracks like “Badlands” and “The Sword” to the melodic intricacy of “The Nail” and “Before I Disappear”, the album is a dynamic journey through the band’s musical and lyrical vision. Reggie Hache’s expanded role on vocals, bass, and keyboards brings a new depth to The Wring’s sound, while Dewulf’s guitar work continues to anchor the band’s heavy yet nuanced approach.
Throughout “Nemesis”, the playing is tight, precise, and yet still free-flowing, each instrument complementing the others and often providing a steady hand while the other players head in different directions.
Enjoy “Nemesis” as a metal album, a prog album, a rock album, or even a pseudo-jazz affair; it’s all of those things. It is recommended for fans of Dream Theater, Opeth, and Porcupine Tree.
“Nemesis” is available as of September 27, 2024, via Wormholedeath, with distribution by Aural/Orchard, it is recommended for fans of Dream Theatre, Opeth, and Porcupine Tree.
Bandcamp - https://thewring2.bandcamp.com/album/nemesis
More info: www.thewring.ca | https://www.facebook.com/thewringband | https://www.instagram.com/wringband
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