23 Acez: Embracing the Madness

Another band that is completely new to me is the Belgian progressive metal outfit 23 Acez. The band formed in 2012 and released their debut Crossroads that same year. In 2014 came Redemption Waves and last year they released their third effort titled Embracing the Madness.

From what I have read this is a much heavier disc than their first two albums. The mind bending beginning of “Re-“ is filled with tripped out programming before the jackhammer staccato riffs exude heaviness. Some pyrotechnic guitar soloing adds to the heavy flavours. The heavy progressive metal continues with “Animation� and its varying tempos, slightly gruff lead vocals and incredibly tight musicianship. It’s a dynamic song traversing heavy and light soundscapes. The moody softer string bending is a real treat for the ears. Willaert’s vocals are particularly catchy in the straight up metal of “Cellbound� and the crystal clear guitar work in the lovely ballad “Shadows� are more excellent moments. The latter does offer a couple minutes of heaviness revealing more great musicianship and powerful vocals. The album is permeated with creative guitar riffs and stellar vocals, certainly major highlights for me.

Embracing the Madness is just an excellent metal disc, powerful, creative and melodic. Fans of melodic/progressive and power metal should definitely have a look.

A Freya Records release.

Band members:
Benny “Zors� Willaert (vocals, guitar)
Tom “Tee� Tas (guitar)
Tom “Mundez� Hesters (bass guitar, programming)
Louis van der Linden (drums)

Track Listing:
1. Re- (2:32)
2. Animation (4:55)
3. Cellbound (5:32)
4. Shadows (4:45)
5. Where Do You Go (4:11)
6. Embracing The Madness (6:10)
7. Expectations (4:17)
8. Catch 23 (1:49)
9. Numb (5:46)
10. The Deeper Thing (3:32)
11. Evolution (4:23)
12. Freefall (6:23)

Added: July 30th 2019
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 1237
Language: english

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