Synaptik – Justify & Reason Album

Review by Carina Lawrence.

                                                                                  The album track list:

1. The Incredible Machine                                   2. Human / Inhuman
3. Conscience
4. White Circles
5. Esc Ctrl
6. A Man Dies
7. As I Am As I Was
8. I Am The Ghost (intro)
9. Your Cold Dead Trace

British heavy metal five-piece, Synaptik from Norwich, UK have a mighty sound that combines thrash, power and progressive metal elements, forming to make their own unique concoction, that they have been delivering since their origins in 2012. Following their critically acclaimed 2014 debut album “The Mechanisms of Consequence”, they are back to make an huge impact with the anticipated new album, “Justify & Reason” which is released on March 10th. 2017 is the year of Synaptik, having already signed with DeFox and Heart Of Steal records as well as landing a US deal with Divebomb records and re-releasing a remixed heavier version of their hit debut. The sophomore album sees the band reach new heights, truly honing in on their already distinct sound, with a bigger focus on progressive depth and darker sounds…

Opening track, ‘The Incredible Machine’ kicks into action furiously with rich melodic vocals from vocalist, John Knight to accompany the intricate guitars and changeable backdrop. The intelligible transitions quickly show their talent and craftsmanship and prove they run a tight ship, with all the rights cogs turning in unison, coming together to amass to six minutes of epicness. Luckily they grip you and give you many ‘reasons’ to keep listening…

‘White Circles’ has a more serene atmospheric approach in contrast initially, helping to show the diversity and range of vocals and sounds they can portray, before they go fully charged and up the angst with aggressive vocals and menacing guitar riffs; The guitars particularly shine here, with an impressive solo, although each member gets their moment to revel, and as a collective unit they are unstoppable rampaging on…

‘Human Inhuman’ features some interesting rhythms and time signatures which make this stand out, with sweet melodies and vocal lines that soar and drive it. It contains some impressive instrumental sections that will draw in fans of bands like Dream Theater, as you get a feel for the bands many musical influences coming through. ‘Conscience’ opens on a blazing harmonic guitar intro that is bound to impress, with guitarists Ian Knight and Jack Murton in their element, and again showing as throughout their technical abilities.

The first single and closing song ‘Esc Ctrl’ is a perfect introduction and representation of the band, as it immediately asserts their unique progressive sound. This is flawless with slick guitars, brilliant production and demanding powerful vocals. You can’t escape from their huge consuming sound, once you hear it you are hooked! They leave you hanging and wanting more as we reach the end.

“Justify & Reason” displays exquisite textured and highly melodic metal that still packs a deadly bite. Each song is expertly crafted and progresses effortlessly in an epic manner, aided by the sheer length of all the songs, as well as the rich flair of sounds and technical showmanship exhibited throughout, in every element. The bands already signature sound stands strong and it will surely assert itself in the metal scene. There is simply no ‘justified reason’ not to listen and admire this impressive collection of songs.

‘Justify & Reason’ will be released physically March 10th 2017 via Snakes On Fire Records (UK), Divebomb Records (US) and digitally via Defox Records worldwide.

For US fans it’s a double dose as the remix album and the new album, ‘Justify & Reason’ will be released as a double album directly via Divebomb Records at www.divebombrecords.com .

The first pre-orders for this collection will be February 1st. The album will be released worldwide everywhere March 10th and the remix album digitally January 30th.

If you can’t wait for the official release of ‘Justify & Reason’ and like what you hear, the band are currently offering a great deal if you head over to their website http://synaptikmetal.com  and sign up, you will get a free download of ‘ESC CTRL’ and £10 off your next order.

SCORE: 5 / 5
Links for Synaptik:

http://synaptikmetal.com/
http://synaptikmetal.bandcamp.com/
www.facebook.com/synaptikmetal

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