In the realm of progressive metal, where creativity and innovation reign supreme, the early 2010s were a golden era. It was a time when bands like Periphery, Erra, and Veil Of Maya were pushing the boundaries of the genre, blending metalcore with djent and creating a sound that was both captivating and controversial. Among these groundbreaking acts, TesseracT's 'One' stands as a timeless classic, a masterpiece that still holds up today. But what happens when two legends from that era, Daniel Tompkins and Paul Ortiz, team up to create something new? Enter Prince of Failure, a debut release that marks a significant shift in Daniel Tompkins' creative world. Personally, I think this album is a bold statement, a fusion of octanecore and progressive metal that both excites and challenges the listener. What makes this particularly fascinating is the way it blends familiar elements with fresh, innovative sounds. The album opens with 'Dream Stealer', a moody intro track that sets the tone for the rest of the album. While it may sound like Skyharbor at first, the following tracks reveal a diverse range of sounds and influences. The album's strength lies in its ability to experiment with different textures and trends, allowing Tompkins to showcase his vocal prowess and Ortiz's instrumental skills. The album's production is crisp and beefy, with electronic soundscaping providing a satisfying aesthetic foundation. The early standout track 'Phantom' epitomizes the octanecore formula, with downtuned guitar grooves and heavy sections. 'Saturn's Shadow' offers a different side of the octanecore coin, with a slow burn and reverb-drenched sound. 'Horizon' flexes the production muscle, with electronic beats and textures leading the way. However, the album is not without its flaws. The formulaic nature of the songwriting can lead to a sense of sameness, and some moments, like the vocal cadence of Tompkins and guest vocalist Kristyn Hope on 'Horizon', lean too far into R&B territory. Nonetheless, Prince of Failure is a solid slab of metalcore, with sing-a-long-able and head-nod-able tracks that are perfect for blasting while driving with the windows down. In my opinion, this album is a testament to the enduring power of progressive metal and the ability of its creators to push boundaries and create something new. It's a must-listen for fans of the genre, and a compelling argument in favor of the octanecore formula. From my perspective, Prince of Failure is a refreshing take on a familiar sound, and a testament to the enduring power of musical innovation. One thing that immediately stands out is the way it blends different genres and influences, creating a unique and captivating listening experience. What many people don't realize is that, despite its flaws, Prince of Failure is a solid album that showcases the talent and creativity of its creators. If you take a step back and think about it, this album is a testament to the enduring power of progressive metal, and a reminder that even in a genre known for its innovation, there is always room for something new and exciting. A detail that I find especially interesting is the way the album shifts between different sounds and influences, creating a sense of musical exploration and discovery. What this really suggests is that, even in a genre as established as progressive metal, there is always room for experimentation and innovation. In conclusion, Prince of Failure is a solid slab of metalcore that showcases the talent and creativity of its creators. It's a must-listen for fans of the genre, and a compelling argument in favor of the octanecore formula. Personally, I think it's a refreshing take on a familiar sound, and a testament to the enduring power of musical innovation.
