Akraik came into the line of sight of many listeners with the release of their sophomore effort, "Reflections Within Dissonance". It was a decent outing featuring acrobatic guitar work and a stunning drum performance. I believe that many fans will be pleased to learn that their third full-length record, "Metamorphignition", takes the aspects of the previous album, improves them, and brings in newer elements to refresh their sound.
The guitarists' performance on this album is one of the best that I have ever heard. The acrobatic solos and never ending stream of riffs keep the listener entertained and begging for more. There are so many riffs on this album that one might be inclined to feel overwhelmed with the amount of sonic information entering your brain, however this is not the case. Every note and every chord is memorable and nothing gets lost in the mix (in part due to the superb production). This focus on quality riffs and solos results in some amazing moments, like the 10 minute epic "The Omnipus." The bass guitarist's work is well done as well. The bass work is very noticeable and creative on the album and has shining moments on the "Sirens In Electric Veils" duo and "The Omnipus".
The lyrics are very well-written and the vocalist makes them flow with the music. They tell the story of a man named Cyrix who is set ablaze from the inside by mystical hieroglyphics and it taken on a journey to the very foundations and essences of general existence and the universe. He is transported to another realm and while there interacts with very powerful and mysterious creatures like a siren named Amoria and a black-winged creature named Malevolex. He interacts with this different entities and they reveal certain secrets and answers about the universe by allowing him to intensely perceive the universe and notice every detail. Seeing the infrared rays between DNA molecules and exploring the very foundations of matter, the journey proves to be overwhelming for Cyrix's mind and body and the ordeal gradually transforms him. His metamorphosis nearly complete, Cyrix is launched headlong into infinity. With his body ripped apart at the speed of light and joining the fabric of existence, he becomes one with The Omnipus. I think this entity controls creation and essentially IS creation. This is purely my interpretation of the lyrics and I think that their story is beautiful and original.
In step with the guitar work, the drummer, Alex Bent, follows along smoothly and seemingly effortless with the endless changes in tempo and cadence. This guy combines machine-like precision with emotional zeal in his playing and it comfortably rests in the mix. The drumming is pretty outstanding, not even considering his young age at the time of this release (19). Shining moments are "Metamorphignition" and "The Withered Hands Of Mortality".
A band's third album is said to reflect the style that they will continue to use throughout the remainder of their career. If this is the case with Arkaik, then play on. "Metamorphignition" is a befittingly complex and mature release with an energetic and youthful atmosphere. Great job, Arkaik, on a solid piece of death metal.