Today on the block we have the new cut Painted Paradise from Indianapolis’ own Fleshbore. If I had to wrap this new cut in a single word it would probably be “blistering”. Everything on this cut is at an 11 even when they decide to slow it up the listener is sitting with crazy anticipation for the next time the pedal gets stomped on. The drums and guitars scream through each track like crazy ass racecars from hell whose pilots have tossed the brakes aside long ago. (see what I did there lol)! 

Right from the opening track we are brutalized with a sonic fury that only relents in the most tasteful of places but again the edge is always looming as we the listener wait for the track to drop out from below casting us in the abyss once more. One thing that will stand out to the listener will be the nuanced pieces that are placed throughout the tracks. I found myself more than one hitting the rewind button to try and get my ear around what exactly I just heard and every time it proved to be something well thought out and not tech for the sake of tech. Sometimes it would be a killer bass run others it would be a killer little lick that would almost be an afterthought if not placed right where it needed to be ( i.e. killer bass solo, track #5 “Inadequate” just as an example). 

Of course, there are plenty of time shifts, meandering dissonant runs, and crazy stops thrown on to keep the most ardent tech fans happy. Some bands I listen to in this genre seem to forget this sometimes but there seems to be a resurgence as bands like Fleshbore present a style of tech that not only impresses but also hits that spot that just makes you go “Damn” whether it be something super heavy or just super tasty. Another thing that I think stands out is the vocals. The vocals show off a wide range of versatility as multiple styles are presented which is always awesome and just adds to the package as a whole. 

At times traditional means are used but the switch-up keeps things fresh as the tracks proceed. Even the timing of the vocals switches up making us wonder if it really is just one person or if multiple singers are applying their styles which again adds to the icing on an already killer cake! So, if you’re looking for a new Tech Metal band to check out or are already familiar do yourself a favor and give this one a go!

Buy the album here:
https://fleshboreband.bandcamp.com/album/painted-paradise

9 / 10
TORBJORN SOLGARD
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