Cruce Signatus, the brainchild of Milwaukee-based multi-instrumentalist David Frazer, unveils its instrumental self-titled debut in a daring leap into the vast expanse of genre-bending soundscapes. The first chapter in an ambitious four-part series serves as the musical backbone to a feature-length animated anthology and is proof to Cruce Signatus’ creativity and an exploration of thematic depth.
Drawing inspiration from a kaleidoscope of influences from the cinematic grandeur of Hans Zimmer and Basil Poledouris to the dark, pulsating undercurrents of synthwave artists like GOST and Perturbator, he melds these diverse elements through his own heavy metal filter. The result is a dynamic, genre-defying sonic journey that pushes the boundaries of conventional composition.
The self-titled debut of Cruce Signatus is a conceptual masterpiece, intertwining four epic tracks that echo and reference each other, creating a rich tapestry of evolving themes and motifs. Each piece contributes to the overarching narrative of an impoverished knight, Pierre Le Batard, navigating his way through the harrowing savagery of the First Crusade, a story brought to life in collaboration with Heavy Metal Magazine illustrators Vincent Kings and Chris Anderson.
From the first note, it’s clear that Cruce Signatus’ approach to composition is anything but ordinary. They eschew traditional song structures, favouring repeated build-ups and polyphonic climaxes that continually stack melodies and rhythms into towering, emotionally charged crescendos. This method not only highlights Cruce Signatus’ technical prowess but also his ability to evoke profound emotional responses through instrumental music alone.
A hauntingly beautiful melody recurs throughout the album, each iteration more complex and layered than the last. This thematic melody serves as a leitmotif, guiding the listener through Pierre’s tumultuous journey and the dark side that he battles within.
The album cover by Chris Anderson and the video illustrations by Vincent Kings add a visual dimension to the auditory experience, enhancing the immersive quality of the project. The stark, vivid imagery complements the music’s intensity, creating a cohesive aesthetic that resonates deeply with the themes of redemption, faith, and the human condition.
One of the most striking aspects of Cruce Signatus (album) is its ability to blend seemingly disparate genres into a seamless auditory experience. The heavy metal elements provide a visceral edge, grounding the ethereal synthwave layers and giving the compositions a powerful, driving force. Cruce Signatus’ sparing use of down-tuned, palm-muted tremolos, crunchy industrial riffs, and doomy open chords amplifies the impact of each musical phrase, ensuring that every note serves the narrative.
The album’s climax showcases Cruce Signatus’ masterful control over tension and release. As the music builds, layer upon layer, the listener is drawn deeper into Pierre’s harrowing descent into Hell, each musical climax mirroring the story’s pivotal moments. The polyphonic climaxes are not just auditory spectacles; they are crucial narrative devices that enhance the storytelling, making the album as much a cinematic experience as it is a musical one.
Cruce Signatus is an epic journey, a meticulous fusion of music and story that challenges one to engage on multiple levels. David Frazer’s ability to compose music that stands on its own while also serving as a compelling narrative tool is a testament to his artistry and vision. As the first instalment of a larger, unfolding saga, this debut sets a high bar for what’s to come.
