Despite deathcore's growing reputation as a genre more about cashing-in than creating quality music, a few "diamonds in the rough" have proven to me that deathcore is far from abysmal as a whole. Arguably the greatest of all my discoveries in the deathcore world is Born of Osiris - a band hailing from Chicago, Illinois that embraces the more technical, progressive, and melodic side of the genre. The Discovery is their second full-length album, and it currently stands as one of this year's finest achievements, irrespective of genre. Killer riffs, sleek musicianship, and lush atmospheres make this entire release an absolute blast from beginning to end. Conservative, old-school metalheads may not like The Discovery's modern tendencies, but if you approach this one with an open mind, it's difficult to be left unimpressed. This is a stunning observation from beginning to end, and an easy recommendation from this humble reviewer. I'm just left with one question... why can't all deathcore be this damn good?
Although Born of Osiris are firmly rooted in the modern deathcore scene, they are certainly no stranger to experimentation. Plenty of quirky technical/progressive instrumental sections, atmospheric keyboards, and interludes are contained on The Discovery, all of which set them apart from the "Emmures" of the world. Possibly more unique than their progressive tendencies, Born of Osiris actually manages to make their deathcore side equally intriguing. Breakdowns are used quite frequently, yet every single one of them is excellent. Born of Osiris adds haunting keyboard melodies over most of the breakdowns on The Discovery, and it always keeps things interesting, even if the breakdown only consists of one or two guitar notes. Just listen to the captivating breakdown in "Two Worlds of Design" to understand what I mean by that - the way that groove builds into an atmospheric climax is remarkable. The Discovery also contains a few songs that are devoid of metal influences entirely. The well-composed "A Solution" is an especially noteworthy track, and the keyboard arrangements on that song are particularly stunning. The beautiful instrumental "The Omniscient" also showcases Born of Osiris's diversity as songwriters and musicians. All of The Discovery is top-notch, though, and I'd venture to say that it's without any weak tracks. This album may take a few listens to fully "click", but it's definitely worth all the attention it demands.
From a solely objective point of view, The Discovery passes with flying colors. Born of Osiris are talented musicians across the board, and their professionalism shines through in every song. These guys are not only skillful players, but also truly gifted composers with a knack for crafting memorable melodies and crushingly heavy riffs. The crisp production may sound a bit "overdone" for some people, but I personally find it to be powerful and effective.
The Discovery ended up blowing me away more than I ever would've imagined. Born of Osiris truly are the leaders of the modern deathcore scene, and this most recent offering shows the genre at its best and most refined. This LP will challenge your mind with its intricacies, stun you with its beauty, and make you bang your head like a madman from its brutal riffs - that alone is enough to leave me highly impressed. Factor in the professional musicianship and sleek production, and you have one of 2011's most essential purchases. Fans of Born of Osiris and extreme metal in general should check this one out immediately. 4.5 stars are well-deserved for this stunning masterpiece.
Track Listing:
1. Follow the Signs (3:50)
2. Singularity (3:33)
3. Ascension (2:27)
4. Devastate (4:35)
5. Recreate (4:00)
6. Two Worlds of Design (3:13)
7. A Solution (2:07)
8. Shaping the Masterpiece (4:39)
9. Dissimulation (2:47)
10. Automatic Motion (2:42)
11. The Omniscient (An Interlude) (2:09)
12. Last Straw (4:00)
13. Regenerate (5:06)
14. XIV (1:52)
15. Behold (5:50)
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