Bloodline Severed delivers triumphant metalcore in “Process of Progression”, their third full-length studio album released on 18 April 2017. They’ve been described as a progressive melodic death metal djent band, and while I struggled to imagine how all of these elements would come together, I walked away impressed by their brand of warfare worship.This is an independent release, produced by Derek Corzine (Blood Thirsty, ex-Syringe, ex-Bloodline Severed).
First off, I am drawn to the strong vocals. I admire a vocalist who can growl like a beast, but also sing a beautiful melody. Corey Weaver does both, without effort. Then it’s the beat. Did it move me? Yes! My fist pumped the air (in an office, with colleagues around). The first track, “Exousia”, is a strong opener and had me craving more. The crisp machine gun kick in “Fire” didn’t disappoint, and the guitars in “Legion” provided an all-round satisfying chug.
My favourite on the album? “Perfection”. Listen out for the excellent breakdown, where the lyrics go, “You are the Name above all names, We lift You higher and higher”. Second favourite? “Identity”. Corey asks, “What have I become? Who is this person staring back at me?” I wonder if his introspection here can be linked to the album title, “Process of Progression”?
The album closes out with the bonus track, “Man of Sorrows”, which was first released as a single in 2014. Here one already gets a taste of the melodic elements that are further developed in the studio album.
“Process of Progression” is a great 8/10.
Written by Karakul
Tracklist:
1. Exousia
2. Light
3. Confession
4. Fire
5. Legion
6. Perfection
7. Identity
8. Alone
9. Alive
10. Closure
11. Man of Sorrows (bonus track)
Band members:
Corey Weaver – Vocals
Aaron Macemore – Guitars, Backing Vocals
Daniel Macemore – Guitars
Joey Cowan – Guitars
David Whichard – Bass, Backing Vocals
John Snyder – Drum Programming, Guitars
Record Label: Independent, April 2017
Studio albums/EPs:
“Fear of Reality” (EP, 2006)
“Visions Revealed” (full-length, 2008 & 2009)
“Letters to Decapolis” (full-length, 2012) [review]
‘Man of Sorrows’ (single, 2014)
“Process of Progression” (full-length, 2017)
Website: Bandcamp / Reverbnation / Facebook / Gofundme
Buy the album here:
Holland: First Paradox
Norway: Nordic Mission
Video (audio) for ‘Process of Progression’