Gracing us with their presence from an alternate reality, Act of Destruction recently transmitted a new album for this world to enjoy. As the warning from the band suggests, listening to this music can, and will, alter your perception of reality.
The album begins with “Eternal Combustion”, pulling no punches as the instruments flood the speakers. There is an overarching tone of melody that is apparent throughout the song, sometimes falling to the background but always there. The vocals kick in with a shift of the guitar riff, coming together to send goosebumps all over the body. Adding the final touches to the masterfully crafted song is the melodic and blindingly fast solo, showing the full depth of the band and their songwriting capabilities.
The second song is “Ascending Into Glory”, slowing the pace of the beginning of the song but keeping all of the elements of the last. The song builds up slowly, letting you bathe in the progression until the song turns and the chills are sent down your back. The instruments keep a simple yet appropriate pace as the vocals take center stage, each piece of the song complementing the others. The emotional guitar solo transcends space and time, leading perfectly back into the vocals and the finale of the song.
Next on the album is “Spiritual Infinity”, beginning just as fast as the first track of the album. Keeping with the melodic guitar tones, the aggressive vocals kick in with fantastic harmonies, creating layers to the song that you will still be unraveling after your 100th listen. Sneaking a quick guitar solo into the song, the song ends abruptly and will have you itching to hit replay.
Sitting as number four on the album is “The Source”, letting the guitar have a field day with the riffing. Moving from riff to riff, the guitar lays the foundation for the vocals and drums to create the soundscape that is “The Source”. Of course no song would be complete without a technically insane and emotionally charged guitar solo, ending with a lead into another build up of the drums and guitar. “The Source” reveals the answers and will have you headbanging during each second.
The EP concludes with “Starkblast”, which sits as the longest song off of the album by far. A slower intro of guitar and drums kick in, with the rough vocals sliding in over top to set the lyrical tone for the song. The pacing of the song is absolutely spectacular, choosing the perfect moments to speed up the instruments, as well as slowing them down or doing without. The vocal and instrumental harmonies are perfected within this song, finishing the album on the perfect note and leaving you forever changed.
This album is a must have for your collection no matter what draws you to metal, for it encompasses everything within the genre.
Band Members:
John Bravo – Vocals/Guitars
David Kraus – Vocals/Guitars
Nigel Bravo – Vocals/Bass Guitars
Jason Caruana – Drums