Sylosis – A Sign Of Things To Come

Sylosis – A Sign Of Things To Come
Release Date: 1st September 2023
Label: Nuclear Blast Records
Bandcamp
Genre: Thrash Metal, Melodic Death Metal, Metalcore.
FFO: Revocation, Trivium, Lamb of God, The Haunted, Soilwork.
Review By: Carlos Tirado

Sylosis is undoubtedly a band that requires little introduction. However, if I were to encapsulate their essence, I’d say it’s Metallica’s spirit with a Scandinavian influence, contemporary technical prowess, and an uncompromising artistic vision. With classic releases like Conclusion of an Age and Edge of the Earth, Sylosis has solidified its position as a band with a distinct musical identity. Nevertheless, while subsequent releases have consistently delivered, they’ve yet to reach the monumental heights set by those two seminal records. This leaves me pondering whether A Sign Of Things To Come can rejuvenate their musical formula while offering something consistent.

This album represents a marked departure from their previous work, particularly Cycle of Suffering (an unfortunately underrated gem). The latter exemplified the quintessential Sylosis sound. It was solid, effective, yet lacking a defining uniqueness that sets it apart from their earlier works. A Sign Of Things To Come resumes precisely where the band left off and embarks on an expedition into uncharted sonic terrain. Rest assured, you’ll still encounter the blistering riffs synonymous with Sylosis, but now they’re accompanied by a newfound nuance. The name of the game here is variety, as Sylosis boldly incorporates enough alterations into its formula to sustain engagement throughout.

The vocal work might raise a few eyebrows, but it constitutes an intriguing evolution. Echoes of Trivium, Soilwork, and Lamb of God can be discerned in their choruses, yet imbued with a distinctiveness that brims with raw vitality. The choruses prove to be versatile, showcasing how Sylosis can seamlessly blend commercial and progressive elements. For a prime example, just compare the contrasting songs of Descent, Absent, and Eye for An Eye. Surprisingly, the Metalcore-like choruses are executed impeccably (I can’t believe I just wrote that). The guitar work, as expected, remains exquisite, with riffs and solos brimming with both intensity and emotion. Middleton’s songwriting and signature sound retain their idiosyncratic nature. Even in moments where the album flirts with electronic undertones, it manages to stay true to its character. Sylosis has evolved, but their essence remains undisturbed.

Historically, editing has posed a challenge for Sylosis, yet this time they strike a commendable balance. (I’m looking at you Monolith, your length made you hard to love.) But now, the album’s length isn’t the usual concern. So, what might raise objections? I suspect this album could polarize fans, given its heightened accessibility compared to their previous works. While it brings a new sound, I confess it hasn’t yet captured my heart in the same way as their earlier albums. However, it might have endeared itself to me slightly more than Dormant Heart, which seldom beckons me to return. This latest release unquestionably ranks as Sylosis‘ most digestible offering, which, ironically, could disappoint those craving intricate time signature shifts, devoid of clean vocals, and absent of a cowbell solo in their metal.

So, give this album a chance. It may not mirror the Sylosis that initially captured your affection, but isn’t it possible to love again? Witnessing seasoned bands demonstrate that they still have it in them is uplifting. Sylosis is far from finished; it still has much to offer. This album, without a doubt, is a sign of things to come.

(4 / 5)