Atlanta-based Irist, who just released their debut album, Order of the Mind, make, for lack of a better term, palatable metal, and often get compared to mainstream/underground crossovers Mastodon. They are heavy and groovy, but don't go so far to the metal side that fans of rock or psych can't get down.
And, much like Mastodon, they do it well. The band are catchy and layer their groove effectively with guitar fills and smart lyrics. From start to finish, there isn't a song that doesn't rip and keep the listener banging their head, and lord knows, we need that at a time like this.
However, that's about all it does. There is nothing wrong with solid, catchy heavy rock, but none of the songs on the album really break new ground. "Burning Sage" is a memorable track, as is "Order of the Mind," but for the most part, they are as catchy as bands like Saviours or Mastodon, but a little late to the game and not really bringing anything brand new.
For that reason, if you dig catchy, easy-to-listen-to metal, you should definitely give this album a listen. But if you're expecting a solid release that excites and moves into uncharted territory, you should keep looking.
(Nuclear Blast)And, much like Mastodon, they do it well. The band are catchy and layer their groove effectively with guitar fills and smart lyrics. From start to finish, there isn't a song that doesn't rip and keep the listener banging their head, and lord knows, we need that at a time like this.
However, that's about all it does. There is nothing wrong with solid, catchy heavy rock, but none of the songs on the album really break new ground. "Burning Sage" is a memorable track, as is "Order of the Mind," but for the most part, they are as catchy as bands like Saviours or Mastodon, but a little late to the game and not really bringing anything brand new.
For that reason, if you dig catchy, easy-to-listen-to metal, you should definitely give this album a listen. But if you're expecting a solid release that excites and moves into uncharted territory, you should keep looking.