Æpoch

Awakening Inception

From the first listen of Awakening Inception, the impressive debut album from Cambridge, ON’s Æpoch, it’s clear they have a lot to offer. It follows their 2015 EP, Æpochalypse, and showcases their penchant for progressive technicality and brutal heaviness while highlighting sweeping melodies and thoughtful composition. “Time : Perspective / Ouroboros Reborn” features a barrage of speedy old-school death metal-style riffs and pummelling drums, which sets the bar quite high for unrelenting forcefulness. “Delirium of Negation” continues with the same kind of ferocious vibe, yet the intricacy of the

Chuck Schuldiner-inspired guitar leads, as well as the fretless bass work provide a new view of Æpoch’s skill. The band’s musicianship is on point throughout, especially on “Tabula Rasa” and the title track, which feature unique structures and tripped-out, proggy tones. While the album puts a focus on Æpoch’s songwriting prowess, tracks like “Burn Them at the Stakes” and “Serenity of Non-Existence” also feature moments of straightforward clobbering aggression. (aepochmetal.bandcamp.com)