Xerath – II

Releasedate: 25-04-2011; Label: Candlelight
By: Sabine van Gameren

Xerath are a metal band from the UK. Formed in 2007, and recognized from 2009 with the release of their debut album ‘I’ (one) via Candlelight Records. Anno 2011 their second album came out and it is called “II” (two).

Containing elements of Progressive, Death, Thrash and industrial metal, Xerath’s music is characterized by the mix of polyrhythmic guitar riffing and drumming, with orchestral / symphonic elements. The band says to be influenced by Strapping Young Lad, Meshuggah, Dimmu Borgir, Opeth. This is surely noticeable while listening to their music. The beginning of the album is a bit cliché actually, but since it is only the intro we can see it through. The band has a good groove in their sound which makes up for it quite a bit. The mentioned names are present in various ways, which gives a bit of a copy paste idea somehow, but when the total outcome is a strong album that has its highlights in the vocals and guitars, which are theme of the parade after all. With their various styles they probably find a wide audience and therefore “II” will find its time to grow. It is not the next new big thing, but as long as it is Xerath’s quality, it’s ok.

Line Up:
Owain Williams – Guitars
Michael Pitman – Drums
Richard Thomson – Vocals
Christopher Clark – Bass

Tracklist: 01. Unite To Defy 02. God Of The Frontlines 03. Reform III 04. The Call To Arms 05. Machine Insurgency 06. Sworn To Sacrifice 07. Enemy Incited Armageddon 08. Nuclear Self Eradication 09. Numbered Among The Dead 10. The Glorious Death

Links:
Xerath Official