Colonizing the Sun

Theory in Practice have come close to perfection with their third release. I have not heard their previous two albums, but if they are anything like this I shall have to get my hands on them. This album contains ultra technical, yet surprisingly catchy death metal. Although many metalheads shy away from metal that is "catchy", this album is not overly so and has a great mix of brutality, odd time signatures, and insane musicianship.

On to the individual instruments. First of all, the guitar work is outstanding. The amount of riffs and how they flow together is magnificent. The technicality of some of them is amazing. The lead work is simply beautiful. Each song has at least one solo, which, while fast and technical, also manages to be melodic.

In terms of drums, they are well done and tightly executed. He plays quite well and does not use much blasting, but instead comes up with different build up patterns to complement the guitar.

Bass is the standard 'follow the root note of the guitar' playing. Nothing special and not very audible.

Keyboard is used mostly for atmosphere, but also has some lead play in melodies and such. They have a slightly reverberating tone to them.

The vocalist has a midrange growl/yell. He does not detract from the music, but isn't much of a stand out. Vocal parts are not used as much as instrumental parts in the songs.

Finally, I must mention the production. I do not like the way the album is mixed. While I cannot place my finger on it, there is something very wrong with it. The recording quality is fine, but the mixing job was poorly done. But overall, this is a very good album and highly recommended to all fans of metal.