While the old adage says, ‘never judge a book by its cover’, we humans nonetheless do it. No matter how we strive to be good and decent humans, preconceived notions on a subconscious and conscious level will form. Having said this, I love when music surprises me. Especially when my mind thinks one thing and I’m given something else.
The artwork for The Forlorn Path from Masser that will be out on February 2nd evokes thoughts of harsh demonic vocals, bleghs, and blast beats but while at times the vocals are harsh, they are not demonic. Bleghs are replaced by catchy melodies, and while there are some blast beats there are also catchy guitar hooks and thunderous bass and drums.
Masser is the brainchild of Gideon Waxman who once drummed for Familiar Spirit. The multi-instrumentalist stepped into songwriting and found inspiration in video game and film soundtracks like Elder Scrolls and Lord of the Rings and composers like Jeremy Soule, Hans Zimmer, and James Newton Howard.
Channelling his new found inspiration, Masser released their debut album Chain of Gifts (2022) followed by the single “Creed of a Worshipped Weapon”.
While the title track is a reflection of Masser’s journey through deteriorating health, it doesn’t ask for pity, but an understanding of the struggles that they faced. The aforementioned single, “Creed of a Worshipped Weapon” focuses less on weapons of arms but that of social media and how the weapon of the masses presents an often carefully curated and often misrepresentation of happiness.
Two songs into the five song EP and we’ve already touched on heavy topics, but “The Hour of the Wolf” while looking at insomnia does so through the story of a demon. As the demon robs those of slumber, they twist time to move slower. “Through the Mist” explores cyclic ways the human mind returns again and again into bad soul destroying ways.
But it’s not all doom and gloom, closing track, “Guardian” is an ode to Masser’s fiancée. Before eyes roll, the song is a far cry from a ballad. Though heartfelt and emotional, the music is heavy, brooding, and the vocals are rich and strong with appreciation and love.
The Forlorn Path by Masser is an affirmation of the depth and versatility of music, proving that even with health challenges, the harsh realities of social media, mental health, and more, there’s room for emotional resonance and a celebration of love.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “The Hour of the Wolf”, “Guardian”
