Writing In The Skies
Metamorphose
(Self-Release)
Instrumental prog metal is one of my many jams because it highlights how important songwriting is without the crutch of a singer. Plus, let’s all be honest, there are a lot of prog vocalists who drag down what are some otherwise fantastic compositions. There are a lot of different takes on this sort of instru-prog, and Massachusett’s Writing In The Skies mostly split the difference among them. The sound on their new record, Metamorphose, morphs together Scale The Summit’s post/prog with Animals As Leaders’ jazzy feel along with some classic prog styles, a la Dream Theater, Opeth, and Haken. It’s groovy, pensive, and occasionally just riff-y enough, though the mix of rhythmic intensity and melodic underpinning make for an album that is both cohesive and continually interesting.
Where the album is held back a tiny bit is in the tightness of these compositions. Despite swirling, ebb-and-flow songwriting, there are quite a few moments that feel just slightly off-time. It’s mildly distracting, but it seems as if it’s intentional (and I haven’t taken a math class since 2006, so what do I know?). Everything within Metamorphose feels so purposeful, so I’m willing to forgive a few off-kilter moments. Overall, Writing In The Skies are a very talented new band with just enough of a unique personality that makes this record all the more entertaining. These nine songs have a distinct identity, but the record flows very well. Those looking for their next great instru-prog fix should definitely give Writing In The Skies a listen.
