Structural – Decrowned (ViciSolum Productions/ Sound Pollution)
Friday, 23rd June 2023
We feel fortunate at this site to take in a wide array of metal from all across the globe – hopefully exposing readers to not only the reliable, veteran artists but also some newcomers that may fly under the radar. Structural hail from Israel, where Orphaned Land are their biggest export in terms of reach/success. They’ve been together since 2015, releasing their debut album Metacognition in 2018 as an independent record. Gaining Intromental Management and shifting members while in lockdown, the band completed a European tour with Semblant while awaiting the release of this second album Decrowned. For those experiencing the quintet for the first time, expect a melding of progressive and melodic death metal where both elements shine, incorporating influences from the 90’s/2000’s-era as well as some modern acts that packs quite a savage punch.
You can often expect intricate progressive guitar runs against stunted, down tuned crunchy rhythms while the rhythm section provides a steady pounding groove template underneath the layers that circle around. At times when the musicians lock into a specific motif, the results can be stunning – check out the aggressive Periphery meets Nevermore riff/tempo action for “And the Earth Has Rested”, as vocalist Nadav Zaidman shifts between sick semi-growls and Randy Blythe-like militant roars/screams. Adept at the dynamic balance where ethereal or quieter ambiance is necessary to convey the next heavy sonic barrage, most will love the new age feel for the opening measure of “White Lilly”, the lower progressive bass/cymbal hits provide that jet propulsion for the subsequent zig zag, spacious guitar parts. Swedish melodic death influences a la Arch Enemy or In Flames come to mind during “Turbulence”, the spoken semi-chanting background vocal aspect another ear-pleasing hook opposite the normal aggressive melodies present. Even as progressive as some parts can be, Structural never go too far into schooled theory where only fellow musicians can grasp these structures – which is a key to garner a bigger following even in these genres.
Getting a jump on the record promotion with summer festival action this season, Decrowned has all the right musicianship to memorable hook/songwriting qualities to hopefully allow Structural to move up the priority ladder quicker than most.
