2010 Demo

I remember first hearing about this band via several YouTube videos posted by the band members themselves. It was impressive, and when they announced that their demo was up for download, I knew I hit the jackpot. One listen was all it took to get me hooked.

For a demo, this release is fairly long, clocking at about 19 minutes. This is because most of the songs are anywhere from 6 to 8 minutes in length, but don't let the length of it fool you; this is anything but another boring technical death metal release. If Spawn of Possession and Arsis were to have some sort of twisted baby, it would sound something like this.

Alot of the riffs embrace the "techy" aspect of the style the band is pursuing, but they have plenty of melody and harmony to them. In songs like "Horrid Obsession", you could almost dance to them. With the song "Forever of Nothing", the riffs choke you with an iron grip, and only let go when they're about to throw you across the room. They provide lots of aggression, and they're still within the realm of techdeath. Aside from that, Annie and Ken trade off some very killer leads and solos. The drumming, despite being programmed, sounds raw and provide the same type of choke-hold, crushing brutality given off by the guitar department. The bass (which CAN be heard!) showcases it's abilities with some very Dream Theater-esque riffage, especially in the song "In Death, Rebirth" where it really shines.

Kevin's vocals range from the typical growls and screams you'd expect from this genre, as well as some VERY deep growls you'd expect only to hear in bands like Defeated Sanity or Devourment. Although I really don't care for slam, the elements of that genre are well played out on this demo in a brutal, yet melodic manner that doesn't compromise the atmosphere and flow of the songs. Even better, harsh vocals aren't the only vocals to be heard here. Annie provides some superb clean vocals that are on par with her guitar playing, and that also help enhance the atmosphere.

Overall, Formless's 2010 Demo isn't just another doodley-doo-wankity-wank techdeath release...it's a new sound and a new brand of metal entirely. Truly, their music is formless, and they know how to completely revamp and rebuild a sound that has been worn out by tons of bands lacking in songwriting skills. I highly recommend this one for any fan of tech/prog metal.