As I dive headfirst into the pulsating melodies of Epoch of Unlight’s “At War With The Multiverse,” I’m transported back to a golden era of melodic death metal. This band, a part of the seasoned generation of the genre, emerged alongside the Swedish triumvirate and left an indelible mark with their unparalleled fusion of Dark Tranquillity’s harmonies and Carcass’ ruthless intensity. A sprinkle of Black metal adds an enigmatic aura, while the unmistakable essence of American thrash completes this sonic masterpiece. It’s regrettable that despite their excellence, they were left behind as the next century dawned. Disappearing for over 15 years, they’ve made a triumphant return, albeit delayed by a global pandemic. “At War With The Multiverse” has finally seen the light of day, and the wait has been more than worth it. Remarkably, the passage of 17 years hasn’t diminished the potency of Epoch of Unlight’s music; it remains as fresh and captivating as ever.
Epoch of Unlight belongs to a league of their own in the melodic death metal realm. Their style harks back to the genre’s early days, where two harmonizing guitars create a fluid, captivating, and profoundly catchy melody. But what sets them apart from their Northern European counterparts is the infusion of American thrash. The intricate shredding, though not blisteringly fast, exudes a ferocity and tenacity that demands attention. The drums pound with a visceral intensity, punctuated by unrelenting blast beats that create an atmosphere of chaos, occasionally veering into the realm of brutal aggression. What’s intriguing about “At War With The Multiverse” is the moments when its melodies seem to break free from the constraints of melodic death, delving into the realm of blackened death, evoking a visceral and agonizing experience.
The album’s tracklist reads like a journey through the cosmos of sound, each title holding a promise of musical exploration. “The Anthropocene” sets the tone with its haunting prelude, foreshadowing the cosmic expedition that lies ahead. With each subsequent track, we’re treated to a symphony of melodies that intertwine and unfold, drawing the listener into a sonic labyrinth. “Wrath of the Cryomancer” and “Beneath a Dying Sun” stand as prime examples of how Epoch of Unlight masterfully weaves ethereal melodies with unapologetic aggression, creating an ebb and flow of emotions that holds us captive throughout the album.
No discussion of Epoch of Unlight would be complete without highlighting the prowess of their guitar work. The harmonies dance and intertwine, taking the listener on an enchanting journey. This is where their mastery shines, as they capture the essence of melodic death metal’s allure and infuse it with their own unique brilliance. The marriage of intricate melodies and thrash-inspired ferocity is a testament to their musical finesse. And when the drums unleash their fury, it’s an embodiment of controlled chaos that leaves a lasting impact.
One of the most intriguing aspects of “At War With The Multiverse” is how Epoch of Unlight pushes the boundaries of their sound. While rooted in melodic death, there are moments when they embrace the dark realms of blackened death metal, adding an additional layer of intensity and depth. This willingness to explore and evolve is a testament to their artistry and musical vision.
For me, “At War With The Multiverse” is the perfect comeback for Epoch of Unlight. It’s a nostalgic journey that remains alluring and brimming with inspiration. As the album unfolds, it’s clear that the passage of time has only refined their craft, allowing them to return with an album that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
As I reflect on the album’s final notes, I’m struck by the enduring power of Epoch of Unlight’s music. It’s a testament to their legacy as pioneers of melodic death metal. With “At War With The Multiverse,” they’ve not only recaptured their essence but have also elevated it to new heights. The album is a reminder that music has the ability to transcend time, and Epoch of Unlight’s return is a triumphant revival that both old fans and new listeners can celebrate.
In the end, “At War With The Multiverse” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the eternal flame of melodic death metal and a beacon of hope for the genre’s future.