Album Review: Moon Machine – Moon Machine (Self Released)

The modern era of progressive metal on the lighter end of things has thrived by fusing metal’s aggressive musical nature with a tempered prog-rock and sometimes post-metal feel all without feeling entirely like metal-lite. Within this new class of progressive metal, newcomers Moon Machine are eager to stake their claim.

Their debut self-titled album will be released on July 30th, 2021.

Moon Machine comments on the release:

Though this album has fun and light-hearted moments, the musical and lyrical content often takes on darker and richer topics as well. Reckoning is about a war criminal, and the powerful, almost violent music melds perfectly with the themes. In the sprawling three-part closer, Post-Upgrade, a software update to an AI companion leads the lyrical main character to contemplate his relationship and place in the world. From beautifully composed and performed piano passages to intense crescendos, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

While Moon Machine might lean towards the lighter side of metal, their progressive rock credentials are not in question. This self-titled debut drips wonder and intrigue in a way that is both enchanting and challenging. Elements of post, smart sounding melodies and mentally uplifting broad-minded rhythms. Moon Machine will make an impact with this debut.

The 7 offerings are varied and detailed. The guitars working hard to take the mind on a journey of intrigue and self-reflection. The contrast of light, airy and playful melodies with sharper jabs of virulent energy are so important to making this album everything it can be.

Of course, it’s not just about the guitars though. Moon Machine’s impact also coming from their percussion which adds a lot of weight to their heavier moments. Heavier moments that come in flashes but are fully formed and developed enough to not seem as though Moon Machine are forcing them.

Then we have the vocals, clean and soft to the ears, most of the time. Don’t be fooled by the nonchalant approach, there’s a lot of passion here. It just so happens to be expressed in a chilled and relaxed fashion. It’s a major part of what gives this the rock flavour rather than the metal mouthful.

It’s the kind of listen that needs time to really grow on you. Enjoyable on the first run through, especially when you hit a powerful point or an eclectic piece of post. However, listen after listen brings in more of the intricacies and results in much more detail being discovered. Some on the top surface and others buried deeper, waiting to be unearthed. It’s a lot of fun digging them up and it just makes this debut all the more impressive.

Moon Machine – Moon Machine Full Track Listing:

1. The Cave
2. Reckoning
3. Demon:05
4. Left to Wander
5. Post Upgrade I – Discovery
6. Lost Upgrade II – Grief
7. Post Upgrade III – Requiem

Links

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