Cryptosis has a sound that defies expectations and limitations with equal intensity. A dizzying blend of visceral extremity, symphonic pomp, and wild, progressive invention showcase a supremely passionate band with a unique and ingenious take on metal’s amorphous rudiments. Elements of Blackened Death, Progressive Thrash, and Grandiose Symphonic Metal are all present and correct, but Cryptosis has combined them in an exhilarating, unprecedented new form that promises to satisfy on both the primal and cerebral levels. The Dutch just have a way of creating new and innovative versions of Heavy metal by blending different tones and textures. Here is yet another great example.

Band Members:

  • Laurens Houvast – Vocals/Lead Guitars
  • Frank te Riet – Bass/Mellotron/Backing Vocals
  • Marco Prij – Drums

Release Date:

December 1, 2023 – Century Media

https://www.centurymedia.com/

Tracklist:

  1. The Silent Call
  2. Master Of Life
  3. Prospect Of Immortality (Live in Athens)
  4. Transcendence (Live in Athens)

Cryptosis only takes about 20 minutes to impress you with their array of tones and textures. There are four songs on this EP and they all bring a different bit of flair to bear. One of the more impressive things that will catch your ear immediately is the speed at which they play their instruments. This is the Thrash/Speed Metal portion of their sound. The grandiose keyboards and orchestral tones bring in the Blackened Death and the ability to shift gears with precision and power adds in some of the Progressive elements.

The Symphonic Metal stylings are a beautiful addition to the overall sound, augmenting the sound to create something haunting, visceral, and enigmatic. The Melodic section in the middle of “The Silent Call” shows the ability to play at something other than warp speed. Then, instead of just soaring back up to full speed, they build back up using different instruments and minor pauses with other instruments. The overall effect is quite stunning. There is a planned and executed composition that brings the track to life.

Two of the tracks are recorded live in Athens, but it is hard to tell they are done live. You hear the crowd chanting at the beginning of “Prospect Of Immortality,” clue you in, but these songs must be recorded through the mixing board and not just on a handheld device. The sound is far too good to be raw. The truly amazing thing is how good Cryptosis sounds live. They maintain all the power and energy during both performances. Without hearing the studio version, it is hard to tell how accurate this version is, but I cannot fathom this being far off the original. It is well rehearsed and performed.

Cryptosis has crafted a sound that is fairly unique and a lot of fun to hear. They have a flair for the dramatic and an amazing ability to fill the soundscape with a lot of different tones and textures, weaving the music and the lyrics into a tapestry of darkness guaranteed to please the blackened souls of their biggest fans.

MZ Ratings:

Musicianship:

  •             Guitars – 9
  •             Rhythms – 9
  •             Vocals – 9
  • Songwriting – 9
  • Production – 9

Overall – 9.00