It has always been difficult to categorize the sound of A((Wake)), arguably one of the most technical and spastic bands to come out of the Pacific Northwest in quite some time, but being predictable was not the vocation of the group to begin with.
The roots of the band began taking hold back in Eugene, Oregon during the summer of 2003 as CONCEPTION. Ben Sattler (Bass) and Cameron Taylor (Guitars) began philandering with a sound that would become the focal point of the group's charge. The addition of percussionist Brian Lawson solidified CONCEPTION'S vision of experimentally heavy music and immediately the band made an impact on the Northwest metal scene. Opening for bands like Breaking Benjamin, Northwest Royale, Thornley and Floater, the band's mysterious and crushing live show was one of a kind. However, CONCEPTION'S existence would be brief. After the unexpected departure of Sattler, the group had to overcome adversity with the addition of Ian Engblom taking on bass duties and relocating to one of the hottest music cities in the region.
Now residing in Portland, Oregon under the new moniker of A((Wake)), the group has returned with a renewed mentality and drive. With the mutation of the lineup, coupled with the additional challenge of being instrumental, the guys had to find a way to portray their vision of metal without a commanding voice. But what the band lacks in vocal charm, they accommodate for with rhythm and grace. And with the release of "The Cresecent" through Red Dirt Studios, A((Wake)) has found a way to communicate this philosophy effectively and persuasively.
"The Crescent" was welcomed with rave reviews from critics and fans alike and with the added visualization and energy of the group's live show, they have crafted an album that is unlike anything the metal genre has heard before. In a genre that is always reinventing itself, the group is primed to be a front runner in the new wave of metal that is taking the United States and the Northwest by storm. In fact, it seems that the instrumental angle has provided the group with more opportunities to express themselves through their instruments, which has been the goal all along.
"The Crescent" is the first stake in A((Wake))'s claim to becoming pioneers of the Northwest metal scene and will follow with the release of a full length LP sometime this fall. Keep your eyes and ears open... the wave is approaching.
"The lush, dark, rambling textures the band has been intently jamming suddenly give way to a syncopated, staccato metal groove. The shift is effortless..." -Synergy Magazine |
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