japaeti - abacus

Japaeti

Abacus
self-released; 2013

3.9 out of 5

I always thought people who played metal were some of the most talented musicians around. I state my case with Japaeti who formed back in 2010. Not only are they technically talented but they also have the creativity to back up their skills which is rare in metal. This is progressive metal which has ADD inspired type changes and it makes creative use of harmonies, space and effects while having some of the best technical work this side of Mastadon. They recently released Abacus which is an instrumental onslaught. It will have metal fans craving for more. There is one thing that is pretty unusual about this album - there aren’t any lyrics until the fifth track. It sort of reminded me of Low by Bowie in how there were two different variations of the same genre.

Japaeti doesn’t waste any time by kicking things off with “Milestone” which starts with a lone guitar and some sputtering electronics until the whole band jumps into to thrash in your face. The amazing drum work can keep your attention alone. I was expecting them to throw in some explosive lead guitar that took my attention away from the rhythm section. If you like the first song you will enjoy the rest of the album as there is not a dull song among the bunch from the sick guitar work on “ABACUS” to the ferocious vocals on “Writhed in Discrepant Variance.” The album closes with the epic “Cognitive Dissonance” which clocks in at around 13 minutes. Overall, this is a progressive metal album that displays the bands technicality while weaving in an abundance of creativity.

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