Wings Denied are an up and coming progressive metal band from Washington, DC. Awake is the band’s first release, in the form of an EP. It was 100% self-produced and funded by the band themselves. Therein, with their indomitable will and effort, Awake finally sees the imminent daylight in May of 2012. It might be through the help of past experiences but there is no denying that a huge amount of effort and time was invested in the creation of Awake. I would say that their efforts have definitely paid off, for Awake is a solid effort in delivering a coherent flow of progressive sounds into a culmination, which is Awake.
Considering Wings Denied is a newer band, they have already surpassed much of the classifications that affirm to that of amateur levels. In terms of songwriting, musicianship and production wise, they are one step higher than many of the newer bands of today. Awake tackles a wide range of soft and hard hitting sounds, often fused with influences and elements from the likes of djent and progressive rock. This is evident in the songwriting department of Wings Denied in terms of vocal approaches, song structures and guitar patterns. Nonetheless, they are well taken into account by careful applications and execution. However in Awake, it also centralised itself by balancing firmly and not going overboard on one particular area. They are then put into place and cleanly mixed in order to provide the centre attention to both the vocals and guitars in Awake. This is to allow a high level of intricate interactions with the listeners, such that the carefully placed hooks are able to stir the attention in them.
Moving on, the eclectic combination of clean and hardcore-influenced vocals is sure to give a negative impression to most extreme listeners of today. But fear not, this is no Metalcore-Screamo fest. Instead, they are delivered quite effectively. For one, Luka Kerecin’s vocals soars and stretches in order to put out a series of catchy lines that is able to climb over tall and high mountains. Then when the climax is reached, Luka drags all the way down to his stressful and rough vocals over the occasional breakdowns. Suffice to say, it should be a clarification as to any doubts of vocals misuse or disability. Still not convinced yet? Well, with the switching between palm-muted and djent rhythms, the guitar also lashes out discharges of melodic and sometimes, dark guitar riffs as well. Furthermore, they comprehend the vocals in order to put forth an atmosphere that is able to stir the deepest of emotional feelings and thoughts. Listeners, the best way to approach this album is to not expect the usage and abusing of mad time-signatures but instead, look forward to an epic progression that consist a variant of interesting sounds.
9/10
About the Author
This is what I feel about my favourite genre in metal:
Black Metal is a timeless piece of magic(k)al art that is not limited by boundaries. Be it musical or aesthetics wise, it contains an honest and raw essence that is capable of not only satisfying the most abrasive of listening ears, but also an elevation to a higher state of transcendence. For years, the sphere of what we considered Black Metal has since expanded. It is mainly because of the myriads of influences that have been brought into the genre itself. Moreover, the influx of experimentations has rendered traditional Black Metal characteristics invalid. This is another trait that attracted me, for one, artists could then create their own art which allow the categorisation of Black Metal to be a certain state of emotional and feelings, rather than that of musical qualities. However, it is still mostly a personal experience to undergo. For the most part, it is different for everyone and I definitely respect that. Listening to Black Metal for me is like opening the floodgates to an ever-flowing source of energies where they are being channelled and manifested in the form of music which we are able to comprehend. Through passion and dedication, one will be able to realise the true potential of the magick that is in work. With that set into stone, the occurrence of change as we know it will be bestowed upon the listeners themselves where they will bask in all the glory and rewards. It is like an endless quest on the path towards spirituality.
Axis of Metal is me showing my appreciation to the music that has been keeping me alive. I also have a personal blog -Thelightoftheinvictus.tumblr.com which I write reviews for during my free time. I am always open to views, discussions and criticism. So, shoot me an email if you would like to talk :)
