DRYAD - Y

Bandcamp is an infinite wellspring of talented bands, outstanding productions, and astonishing albums. German band DRYAD effortlessly amalgamates these qualities in their latest offering. Prior to encountering them, I was unaware of their existence, but now I find myself enthralled and unable to cease my exploration of their music.

The album commences with "Pulsar," providing an immediate glimpse into what awaits: an immersive atmosphere, commanding production, and guitar tones that traverse the realms of doom and classic heavy metal. This captivating opener ignites my curiosity for the ensuing tracks. "Meghalaya" surpasses the initial impression with its commanding vocals and a propulsive, doomy rhythm and riffing. "Wayfarer's Rebirth" skillfully guides listeners through a touch of prog, evoking 70s Hard Rock with a hint of Protometal. "Gaia" stands out as one of the most monumental songs I've encountered in recent years—an otherworldly, heavy composition characterized by resplendent guitars, jarring breaks, dynamic shifts, and an enthralling interplay between ethereal levity and weighty segments. "Darvaza" showcases harmonious vocals and an atmosphere reminiscent of Post and Shoegaze rock, making it my personal favorite thus far.

"The Devil's Breath" delivers yet another surprise. Its pleasingly straightforward, energetic rock style serves as a stark contrast to the preceding "Of Knaves and Fools," which exudes elements reminiscent of Savatage. Once again, a change in timing, tempo, and mood transpires with "Overlord," lurking around the corner with its impeccable blend of speed and strategic breaks. It stands as yet another remarkable composition. "Ludus interruptus," however, appears to deviate from the overall cohesion of the record, functioning as a cosmic, synth-driven interlude.

Closing this extraordinarily diverse album is "At the Advent of Dawn," an amalgamation of songs that defies predictability, offering a continuous flow of shifting tempos, styles, and moods. It is an exceptional record, skillfully produced, and serves as an enticing glimpse into the band's potential for future live performances.