The Physics of Fire

I am actually quite confused by the reviewers for this album claiming that The Physics of Fire isn't as good an album as Terminate Damnation. I read the reviews and thought that the very same reasons that people gave for it not being as good were some of the reasons I would give for it not being as good! But I'm not here to talk about the other reviewers, I'm here to talk about what is one of my all time favourite albums!

I loved Terminate Damnation, but Physics of Fire shows a real step forward in musical ability for Becoming the Archetype. I happened to see them live on their European tour a few months before PoF was released, so I know what these guys can do. And this album, which I was eagerly anticipating after TD and of course the tour, does not disappoint! Yes, the band has changed their style somewhat from TD, but that is the point of progressive metal, which the band has now moved into the realms of. In the same way that any other progressive metal band (take Opeth as a good example of this) tries to keep their music fresh and exciting, so too have BTA.

There is a lot more evidence of the technicality of the guitar work in PoF and with the inclusion of Alex Snow as lead guitarist, the solos come thick and fast. They appear to be more technical on this album as well, which adds to the new sound, and they work extremely well with the pounding rhythm guitars and the bass of Jasom Wisdom. Wisdom's vocals are one of the few things that haven't changed, but in this instance I think that is a good thing. His shouting is a very distinct sound, and they are part of what makes BTA unique. The drumming seems pacier and altogether more tight, and this is evident right from the first track, "Epoch of War". The piano is included more frequently on PoF, and while they don't have any four minute long piano solos like they do on TD, the piano still manages to add a fantastic epic feel to the overall sound being used in every song as synth effects as well as a classic piano.

So yes, they have a new sound, but I would be willing to bet that had BTA produced an album that sounded just like TD, the reviewers would be complaining that they are a one sound band. And I am so glad they aren't as now I have an amazingly talented Christian metal band, I don't want them to fall into the trap of creating the same old thing every time. It's nice to see Christian musicians thinking outside the box for once!

Bring on the next BTA album, and may it be another fantastic death metal experience!