Neurosis

Originally released in 1992, and reissued in 1999, this latest incarnation (with new artwork and mastering) symbolizes an important transition from Neurosis's existence as a late '80s hardcore unit to a "post-metal/experimental" juggernaut. Fans turned onto Neurosis by some of their more recent work (2004's The Eye of Every Storm or 2007s Given to the Rising) will be pleasantly surprised to discover this early gem, as their third album not only represents a different musical era, with the band finding their footing (you can hear the dated influence of goth/industrial effects on the demo version of "Souls at Zero" and "Takeahnase"), but main vocalists Steve Von Till and Scott Kelly sound positively youthful, as their voices are shrill, angry and perhaps a bit unsure, whereas on later albums their voices and lyrical content have been weathered by age and wisdom. The reissue of Souls at Zero at this particular point in history strengthens the importance of their catalogue of music, and their ability to successfully experiment and implement new musical ideas while staying culturally relevant.