The unity that heavy metal has among everyone is a strong force. Whether it is cultural differences, different beliefs, or what have you etc, the power of Heavy Metal brings us together as one. Today’s artist was formed along those lines, for the distance and location of each member is widespread internationally. After about a year of hard work and file exchanging, Modern Melodic Death Metal quintet, Meridian Dawn, have released their debut EP titled, The Mixtape. The band’s members come to us from The US, Belgium and Finland, while their headquarters are based in the States. A studio was constructed at frontman, Antony Hämäläinen’s home, to record most of the album, and then finally the album was sent to be mixed and mastered in Gothenburg, Sweden. The EP brings a most defninite modern approach with a Classic Death Metal influence, hence the members coming from bands such as: Firewind, Nightrage, Into the Moat, and Remembering Never. Five tracks, just over twenty minutes of delectable tunes.
[tube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vDFJXrzjacM[/tube]
Thieves, kicks off the EP in a diverse way. A classic influence launches the album, and a plethora of generically heavy blast beats appear at various points. The melodic aspect of the guitar like the tapping really add another spin to the track. The track is not technical in any way, its satisfyingly heavy with just the right amount of attunement brought forth. For you speed freaks, the second track will get you headbanging. Fever Syndrome, gives us a harsher look and sound from the band. Occasional slower breaks are set in motion with a steady progression. The eargasmic harmonies are astounding and the track finishes on a speedy note. I really dig this one. Dressed In Ice, features Jake E of Amaranthe. Still heavy, this is one of the more intimate tracks, you can call it. The astral aspects of the guitar add a pleasurable ambience, and once again the harmonious guitars appear and finish off the pleasant track. The next track, I Don’t Wanna Be, from the get-go is an immediate influence of classic death metal. The track is a tribute to the late Peter Steele of Gothic Pioneers, Type O Negative. Bits of Punk are found as well, and follows a tradional song making process, but that does not deter the harshness this track can bring. Throw in a killer kickass shredding solo and a powerful track is born. I really enjoyed this one. Lastly, the track, Descent, was written by Industrial Metal icons, Fear Factory. The track performed by Meridian Dawn, is a tribute to Fear Factory. Simplistic in structure and rich in modernness, nothing out of hte ordinary is featured here. An average track to finish off the EP, the last song only adds to the vast variety these guys can conquer.
[tube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKkP06yahHM[/tube]
The production and mastering prospects of this EP are above and beyond for an EP. Related to what I had said earlier, it’s interesting to see artists collaborate and when they make a supergroup, usually great things happen. Overall the album brought to me a new refreshing view on metal, and helped me expand upon the modern sound. Everything from the unique riffs, repeatedly harmonious pinnacles, and distinct shifting vocals created a memorable album. This is not your typical metal album, upon listening you will be able to tell. Their musical style is imaginative and cannot be replicated. Stay Metal m/
The Mixtape EP: 9/10
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The Metal Alchemy 