The selling point for A Giant Bound To Fall (Transcending Obscurity Records), the latest full-length from progressive/melodic death metal outfit Eternal Storm, is the simple fact that every song on the record brings something different and unique to the table.
In other words, every track offers something fresh and inspiring. The sheer fantastic mix-up of vocal ranges and techniques, coupled with the plethora of tools in the band’s arsenal, breeds replayability from the start.
The title track alone possesses a magnificent bridge and hook, delivered in stunning fashion that is reinforced by slow, full-throated goodness. The vocals here sound like they are coming from the literal soul.
In fact, all three band members (Daniel R. Flys, Jaime Torres and Daniel Maganto) contribute towards the vocals. And instead of it sounding like a “too-many-cooks-in-the-kitchen” debacle, the confluence of three different personal touches does wonders for the finished product.
Most notably, the harshes for “The Sleeper” at around the 1:30 mark is the best on the entire record, which isn’t to say there is any real blemish on the overall performance.
As for the illustrious instrumentals, the rhythm section acts as intricate guidance for A Giant. “There Was A Wall” features a sprawling, atmospheric two-minute introduction. “The Void” ends with a quasi-choir working in tandem with spacey electronics.
Then there are the moments of emphatic aggression and storybuilding (“An Abyss Of Unreason”) and a somber, mellow riff which remains throughout while being peppered with freeform-feeling guitar solos (“Eclipse”).
And even the opening track (“A Dim Illusion”) kicks in from the very start with a pompous riff. In fact, there are some subtle Ozzy Osbourne-era “Hellraiser” vibes and of course impressive melodic singing in addition to an enticing spoken section.
The reach and breadth of Eternal Storm is on full display with this album. Every single track is but another opening of a leather-bound book that’s collected dust in an attic yet has endless wonderment to offer.
Buy the album here:
https://eternalstormdm.bandcamp.com/album/a-giant-bound-to-fall
9 / 10
MATT COOK