Hieroglyph
Ouroboros
(Self-Release)
It’s fitting that English modern progressive metal group Hieroglyph reference ancient esotericism and Egyptian/Oriental melodies with their debut album. The group tackles the Major Arcana, aka the first 11 Tarot cards, and the record is enriched by this decision to delve into a discussion around higher consciousness. Much like the heady bounce of fellow Brits Monuments, Hieroglyph employ a keen balance between punishing low end, dexterous leads, and a clean/harsh vocal approach. Unlike that group, Hieroglyph employ Gothic-styled female clean vocals (slightly reminiscent of Lacuna Coil), interspersed with harmonized male vocals and more traditional harsh screams. Much like a three-headed vocal attack, the band’s sound refuses to stick to one idea too long. This is modern progressive metal that, while offering up something refreshing, also refuses to stay stagnant. Take the excellent closing title track for example. In one moment, it’s soaring and pensive, before breaking out into a righteous surge of post-Meshuggah energy (they’re more vildhjarta generally), before a delightfully airy guitar solo. It’s all capped by Valentina Reptile’s calm vocals to a chilling effect.
The band doesn’t always employ such a stunning understanding of dynamic writing, but that’s understandable for a debut full-length. “Solar”, while a fine track, could certainly do without the electronic undertones, and the twice-tracked vocals are unnecessary. Otherwise, Hieroglyph are clearly a modern prog group to watch and seem uninterested in whatever fad djent is going towards at the moment. If you’re looking for a band who understands how to write compelling, interesting modern prog while also understanding how to djent (without relying on a guitar tone as a crutch), then Hieroglyph are a surefire winner.
