EP Review: Hyloxalus – Aposematic (Self Released)

Hyloxalus are an operatic dark power metal hailing from Edmonton, Canada. The band was started in 2017 by Mike Bell(guitars, bass, programming, screaming) based on a couple of old demos. Joined later by Nina Laderoute (vocals) then properly launched in 2019.

On the 28th of July 2021 they will release their brand-new EP, Aposematic.

It’s an appealing combination. Operatic/symphonic power metal with touches of black metal, wrapped up in a dark bow. The opening track, Voices from the Septic Hollow is a great showcase of how Hyloxalus make those opposing sounds work. You’ll get vibes of the likes of Dimmu Borgir during the daker moments, Nightwish because of the vocals and grander elements and when combined, Ghost of all things.

Steel, Blood and Irony goes from folkish melody to frantic operatic metal, the vocals hitting powerful highs and the riffs sounding suitably epic. The drop in tempo and eloquent melody at the halfway point sounds great but the following guitar solo is where it’s at.

The last original track is 10,000 Neolithic Ghosts, a track that is outstanding in several departments. Namely; the black metal ring of the guitars, the beauty of the vocals and the subtle touches of keyboard layered here and there in the background. An outstanding track that most won’t want to end.

Although the EP does come with one more track and that’s a cover of Belgian rock band, Black Mirrors’ Moonstone. A powerful rock track with interesting use of synth. If you’re a fan of the original, you’ll definitely enjoy Hyloxalus’ version.

Hyloxalus – Aposematic Full Track Listing:

1. Voices from the Septic Hollow
2. Steel, Blood and Irony
3. 10,000 Neolithic Ghosts
4. Moonstone (Black Mirrors Cover)

Links

Bandcamp | Facebook | Instagram