Through Lucid Eyes
Transient EP
(Famined Records)
This is one of those times where an EP’s grade is less important than the actual listening experience. The most recent release from Canadian progressive metalcore (sure, djent) group Through Lucid Eyes reveals a very impressive band on the cusp of greatness; yet, they’ve been held back by conforming to some genre norms. That said, the talent and potential is undeniable. The riffs and leads on this from guitarist Ryan O’Grady are exceptional and definitely repeat-worthy (you know, those parts where you have to hear them again). There are a number of those throughout this short EP, and, really, Transient does a great job transitioning from more all-out assaults to more introspective sections. “Fleeting Moments” and “Introspection” showcase how the band best utilizes the djent framework into something rather excellent and enjoyable.
The Erra and Northlane comparisons are very clear, and the biggest issue (aside from the “we’ve heard it all before routine) is that clean vocalist Cameron Bennett’s high-pitched tenor just doesn’t fit. Jacob Cardinal’s harsh vocals do more than enough to capitalize on the melodic nature of the band’s music, but Bennett’s singing just doesn’t fit. It’s not that he’s necessarily a bad vocalist, but you don’t want to hear someone trying out for Circa Survive after a djent breakdown, you know?
That said, if Through Lucid Eyes can keep Bennett’s work to a minimum (to be fair, out-of-place melodic vocals are what I find most troubling about Erra) or at least find a better way to utilize him, they absolutely have the talent and promise to become a real voice in the over-bloated djent scene. Transient has so many wonderful moments that hint at the greatness to come, but the overall package isn’t quite there. If the band can further hone in on its voice in a full-length setting, we could be in for a real treat.
