In the realm of extreme metal, where technicality and innovation are often sought, Arise from Worms' debut album, A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction, presents an intriguing paradox. On the surface, it boasts an impressive lineup, including members from renowned death metal bands like Incantation, Morbid Angel, Cryptopsy, and Dream Theater. This alone should be enough to capture the attention of metal enthusiasts, especially those who revel in the fusion of technicality and aggression. However, as I delved deeper into the album, I found myself grappling with a complex web of emotions and opinions, which I will now unravel for you.
The Lineup: A Dream Team?
What makes this album particularly fascinating is the sheer star power it commands. Sonny Lombardozzi, the mastermind behind Arise from Worms, has assembled a dream team. His time with Incantation and contributions to Morbid Angel's Kingdoms Disdained showcase his prowess in the death metal realm. The addition of Cryptopsy's Flo Mounier and Dream Theater/Yngwie Malmsteen's Derek Sherinian further solidifies the band's technical prowess. Steve Tucker, known for his work with Morbid Angel, brings a menacing vocal presence, though I must admit, his performance could have been more vicious and intense. The question arises: why does the album feel underwhelming despite this stellar lineup?
Technicality vs. Songwriting
In my opinion, the album's strength lies in its technicality. Lombardozzi's guitar work is a masterclass in shredding, with licks and speeds that would make Yngwie Malmsteen envious. The bass lines, often shadowing the guitars, are equally impressive, showcasing an excellent level of dexterity. Mounier's drumming is a highlight, with his signature percussive style adding a layer of ferocity to the music. Sherinian's keyboard contributions, though sometimes leaning towards Dream Theater, add a unique mystique to the album. However, what many people don't realize is that the album's downfall lies in its songwriting. Despite the technical wizardry, the songs often feel like showcases rather than fully formed compositions.
Production and Sound
One thing that immediately stands out is the production quality. The album sounds incredible, with each instrument having its own space in the mix. The strings, keys, drums, and vocals blend harmoniously, creating a satisfying listening experience. This is a refreshing change from the poor production quality often associated with technical death metal. However, I find myself questioning whether the production enhances the album's flaws or merely masks them.
A Mixed Bag
As a fan of technical metal, I was initially impressed by A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction. The lead single, 'Forgotten Kings', had me convinced that this would be a special album. The band's promise to break new musical ground and pioneer novel harmonies and time signatures was intriguing. Yet, upon closer inspection, the album reveals a dichotomy. The performances are undoubtedly outstanding, but the execution falls short of fulfilling metal songcraft. The album lingers between technical brilliance and inadequate songwriting, leaving me with a sense of mixed feelings.
A Takeaway and a Question
In the end, A Bleeding Tree Hanging Self Destruction is a testament to the challenges of balancing technicality and songwriting. While the performances are impressive, the album fails to deliver a cohesive and memorable experience. This raises a deeper question: can technicality alone sustain an album, or does it require a deeper connection through songwriting? Personally, I think that the answer lies in finding a harmonious balance between the two, and I look forward to seeing how Arise from Worms evolves in their future endeavors.
