In Element Evolution: Begins in Chaos
Sonic Wave International 2005
By Jason Jordan
Ill cut right to the chase: In Element play metalcore infused with industrial, and on the electronic side they can be likened to present-day Red Harvest and Samael. Therein lies a problem, however, since the latest offerings from the above-mentioned Internal Punishment Programs and Reign of Light, respectively werent that interesting. Though Evolution: Begins in Chaos proves competent on several levels, this hour doesnt do much in the way of reinvention. Besides that, and in short, I just couldnt get into it all that much.
Like I stated, this disc is an hour in length, presenting typical heavy instrumentation, which is then supplemented by all forms of synthesizer. At times, the keyboards are subtle, while at other times theyre sweeping. Or they simply coat the tune in a thick industrial paint. Worming their way through said coating are the Nergal-esque (Behemoth) barks, though not as upfront and authoritative, as well as needling guitar melodies and predictable drums. Featuring the best and worst of the lot simultaneously is Architect of Chaos. The beginning is not unlike latter-day Samael, although the guitars double as a life-preserver, saving In Element from an inescapable defeat. The core breakdown at 2:50 sees the band reenter the muck, because the tempo slows to a near halt and cracks the momentum in the process. All is not irreparable, though, as the band rebound less than a minute later when all elements culminate to produce an affable section. Quite a comeback, if I do say so myself. Cyclos and CyberGod crush from the get-go, but rarely does any other piece fare as well as the ones Ive cited thus far.
Luckily, my review copy of Evolution: Begins in Chaos is about as close to a full-on, professional as one can get. In other words, In Element didnt shirk off any of the responsibilities needed in order to compose an eye-catching album worthy of distribution. Nevertheless, this isnt enrapturing, nor is it impressive because this industrial-laden style has seen better days. Still, this isnt irksome; it just left me feeling empty and unfulfilled. Theyve got potential, though. I must admit that. After all, I am under oath.
5.5/10
Official In Element Website
Official Sonic Wave International Website
Sonic Wave International 2005
By Jason Jordan
Ill cut right to the chase: In Element play metalcore infused with industrial, and on the electronic side they can be likened to present-day Red Harvest and Samael. Therein lies a problem, however, since the latest offerings from the above-mentioned Internal Punishment Programs and Reign of Light, respectively werent that interesting. Though Evolution: Begins in Chaos proves competent on several levels, this hour doesnt do much in the way of reinvention. Besides that, and in short, I just couldnt get into it all that much.
Like I stated, this disc is an hour in length, presenting typical heavy instrumentation, which is then supplemented by all forms of synthesizer. At times, the keyboards are subtle, while at other times theyre sweeping. Or they simply coat the tune in a thick industrial paint. Worming their way through said coating are the Nergal-esque (Behemoth) barks, though not as upfront and authoritative, as well as needling guitar melodies and predictable drums. Featuring the best and worst of the lot simultaneously is Architect of Chaos. The beginning is not unlike latter-day Samael, although the guitars double as a life-preserver, saving In Element from an inescapable defeat. The core breakdown at 2:50 sees the band reenter the muck, because the tempo slows to a near halt and cracks the momentum in the process. All is not irreparable, though, as the band rebound less than a minute later when all elements culminate to produce an affable section. Quite a comeback, if I do say so myself. Cyclos and CyberGod crush from the get-go, but rarely does any other piece fare as well as the ones Ive cited thus far.
Luckily, my review copy of Evolution: Begins in Chaos is about as close to a full-on, professional as one can get. In other words, In Element didnt shirk off any of the responsibilities needed in order to compose an eye-catching album worthy of distribution. Nevertheless, this isnt enrapturing, nor is it impressive because this industrial-laden style has seen better days. Still, this isnt irksome; it just left me feeling empty and unfulfilled. Theyve got potential, though. I must admit that. After all, I am under oath.
5.5/10
Official In Element Website
Official Sonic Wave International Website
