New year, new label… Following their first two releases under the Prosthetic Records banner, UK-based Death Metallers Cognizance are back with Phantazein, a concept album via Willowtip Records that focuses primarily on “art, obsession, and the profound influence of one’s environment.”

The five-piece outfit surpasses typical Death Metal and on this record introduces elements of Technical Death Metal and thrash. None of this puts a strain on the production value, which is a well-oiled machine – and certainly sounds like it – from start to finish.

“Ceremonial Vigour” in particular is rugged and refined, freshly polished with pirouetting guitar fills countered with bristling riff tones. It’s both techy and thrashy, serving as a microcosmic opening piece. 

The percussion section is especially proficient on Phantazein, showcasing exceptional drumming abilities on both “A Brain Dead Memoir” and “The Towering Monument”, creating a stern sense of determination and acumen that oftentimes might get lost in the shuffle with the myriad other elements at play in these genres. 

As to be expected, Cognizance also don’t shy away from infusing lively, invigorating guitar solos and infectious headbanging riffs that are both brawny and angular. “Chiseled In Stone” features swirling stringwork accompanied by dense, hearty vocals. 

“Shock Heuristics” hits the ground sprinting before the guitars burst onto the scene, akin to a firefighter’s hose that’s uncontrollably running wild. Not to be outdone, “Futureless Horizon” packs brawny riffs and angular fingerplay. The instrumentals on this track are downright gritty, pulsating. 

All in all, Phantazein is a supremely clean album with songs that feel compact and guided while also maintaining frenetic energy consistently throughout. It’s a technically proficient romp that showcases a clear ability without unnecessary fluff or arrogance.

Buy the album here:
https://cognizance.bandcamp.com/album/phantazein 

8 / 10
MATT COOK