Prepare for a sonic whirlwind with Pattern Rebirth, the latest EP from progressive death metal project Of the Sun, led by the tenacious Patrick Duvall. The release doesn’t just push boundaries; it shatters them, blending chaos and meticulous precision to create a sound that is unrelentingly fierce and technically masterful. The EP features a remarkable lineup, including Bryce Butler of Shadow Of Intent on drums, Jacob Umansky of Intervals on bass, and Black Satellite’s Rom Gov, whose performances elevate each track to a blistering high.
Opening with “Riot Act,” one is plunged headfirst into a storm of brutal riffs and scorching vocals. It’s a fiery anthem that lays the EP’s thematic groundwork: a rebellion against the powerful institutions that shape modern life. Bryce Butler’s drumming on this track hits like a sledgehammer, anchoring the chaos with intricate yet punishing rhythms.
The second track, “Pattern Rebirth,” masterfully weaves in technical guitar leads and non-standard time signatures, a nod to Patrick’s sophisticated composition style. It’s a song as fluid as it is fierce, touching on how digital interconnectedness can spark both unity and division.
“Under” takes a different route by veering into a labyrinthine nine-minute journey that twists between aggression and trippy psychedelic moments. The track’s shifting pace mirrors Patrick’s narrative of recklessness and shattered ideals.
Finally, “Lost Tongue” offers a surprising yet fitting conclusion. With a slower tempo and a hint of rock ballad flair, it explores themes of personal and societal erosion, all the while incorporating South American instruments like the gaita and maracas for a haunting cultural touch.
Pattern Rebirth stands out for its audacity to experiment without losing its death metal core. Of the Sun presents an unfiltered exploration of anger, societal decay, and fleeting hope, making the EP a standout for those craving technical prowess paired with a searing emotional undertone.
