Xerath play what they themselves call “orchestral groove metal” or “film score metal”. What this sounds like is Meshuggah with constant orchestration going on in the background. There are a few surprises here and there, but essentially that initial description sums up the band. This highly experimental style is potentially marketable idea as any film production team looking to use a heavy track for their trailer have it gift wrapped and ready to go.

However, strip away the orchestration and Meshuggah have yet another potentially winnable lawsuit. It seems that just like so many other bands wishing to emulate that math-groove style, everything from Xerath’s guitar tone to their vocalist’s timbre are reminiscent of the Swedes.

The orchestration itself is well put together and often quite effective. I’m not sure if it necessarily needs to be there at every moment though, as for some parts it’s obvious that the composers are just using drawn out chords to fill space. As an added element it would probably retain more potency if it cut out now and again only to return in force at a poignant moment.

As most experimental and avant-garde music tends to do, Xerath’s unique blend goes from jarring to familiar and catchy with repeated listens. If you’re intrigued by this style but are reluctant to commit to a whole album purchase, the song “False History” is a great place to start.

3.0/5