This one’s for those who know how to appreciate the art of metal music, or if you’re looking for a change of genre, or perhaps if you want some well-arranged noise in your system, “Fear Reigns” is an album to consider. It takes metal as a type of experience, something that shouldn’t be considered as stagnant, because you’d be surprised by how unique and ‘brand new’ the songs in it feel.
Originating from the Bay Area of San Francisco, it’s safe to say that PostHumanX is somewhat an experimental band, fusing the raw emotion of aggression, deathcore, and electronic rock. And, according to them, their songwriting mostly revolves around the concept of man versus innovation, more precisely the consequences of modern technology.
Jumping right in, listeners are instantly met with high quality—some would say ‘premium’—vocals and percussion in “Bloodline”. The guitar almost merges in a harmony-like sense with the vocals, carrying the rhythm as if it’s one entity. With “I Am Your God”, the power really seeps through the song. The separate dialogue amidst the hardcore vocals goes on a thrilling way of storytelling. There’s a specific part in the song wherein the vocals are layered to sound more dark, twisted, and almost horrific, which defines this record as a whole.
When “Reptile’s Blood” comes on, and it may sound self-explanatory, thoughts of Jurassic Park come to mind, as if it’s been turned into a complete horror franchise. The breaks in between each segment come in just right, making the track more enjoyable and not overbearing in the slightest. A notable part of this song is how the guitar resumes its own progression despite the changes in overall pacing or part, like it’s one constant flow all throughout.
As if to switch things up, “Project Nile” starts off with the instrumentals toned down for the first couple seconds. The drum parts are truly capable of satisfying a brain itch, because the rollings are just smooth and perfectly timed. The same can be said with the electro-like and the soaring, static-like sound of the guitar in certain parts.
Likewise, the dynamic is interesting to listen to in “Binary Devourment”. The static-like high in the background is most certainly noticeable. It adds a unique, tech-y feel to the entire song. There’s a synth-like melody in the near end, cutting through the grittiness but not enough to get rid of the trademark sound completely, but rather it only goes so far to complement it. If one is listening chronologically, they would already think—or immediately tell and anticipate—that no two songs sound alike in this record.
The fast-paced upbringing in “Grid Of Flesh” evokes a vibe like Metallica’s “Master of Puppets”. But then, you get a new pair of vocals in the chorus, unfamiliar when you’ve only listened to half of the songs on this album, which would probably remind you of Black Veil Brides. The guitar parts in this particular track sound like a staircase going up and down the scales. Despite the resemblances named, you are never going to hear a sound like this apart from PostHumanX.
Overall, it’s a solid album. “Fear Reign” not only explores an in-depth concept, but it also showcases the potential of this genre, bringing it to new heights with the electronic influences (contrary to the concept itself, but it’s what makes it interesting). You will headbang, yearn on actually playing the songs on your own, and have a moment to ponder how much we’re heavily reliant or under the control of technology. This one’s highly recommended for those who dabble in experimental music, or those who love to sink their ears in something new.
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About the Author
Kate Clarice Lee is a psychology major in Ateneo de Naga University with a knack for music and writing. She takes interest in playing guitar, poetry, creative writing, and lyrics that—subjectively—hit close to home. Kate mostly enjoys indie, alternative, pop & punk rock music.
