CRYPTOSIS — Bionic Swarm (review)

Album · 2021 · Technical Thrash Metal

4/5 · 2021-08-15
UMUR

"Bionic Swarm" is the debut full-length studio album by Dutch thrash metal act Cryptosis. The album was released through Century Media Records in March 2021. Cryptosis formed in 2020, but they were actually active under the Distillator monicker in the years 2013-2020 and released a couple of studio albums before changing their name to the current one. Leading up to the release of "Bionic Swarm", Cryptosis released four singles (all tracks featured on the album), and a split with Vektor. Especially the latter release helped to promote the release of "Bionic Swarm".

While Cryptosis in some ways is a continuation of Distillator, it´s not only the name of the band which has been changed, it´s also the direction of the music. Distillator are a relatively straight forward and aggressive thrash metal act, but Cryptosis add a technical edge and sci-fi lyrics, image, and atmosphere to their brand of thrash metal, and the two bands (although sharing several members), should be considered two completely different acts. The most obvious contemporary reference is definitely Vektor, but Cryptosis do have their own sound and "Bionic Swarm" fully displays the qualities of Cryptosis and give a good impression of the vision of the band.

Technical thrash metal artists are sometimes focused on their technical playing and less on the songwriting and impact of their music on the listener, but that´s not the case with Cryptosis. Although the music certainly is technical in nature, Cryptosis take great care that their material is also memorable and effectful, so in the midst of technical riffs/rhythms and the occasional progressive songwriting idea, the listener is also treated to more regular thrash metal riffing and rhythms, and the balance is a great strength.

The band are well playing and deliver their music with great skill and conviction, and lead vocalist/guitarist Laurens Houvast has an aggressive snarling delivery, which suits the music perfectly. Compared to the vocals on the contemporary releases by Vektor, the vocals on "Bionic Swarm" are more human in nature (to make a comparison that most readers will recognise). The music features both fast-paced and heavier sections (a track like "Prospect of Immortality" is for example a nicely heavy track), and there are touches of melody here and there too, so it´s generally dynamic music with more than one trick up the sleeve. "Bionic Swarm" is a concept album featuring dystopian stories taking place in the year 2149, and the sci-fi lyrics and atmosphere are important parts of the album.

"Bionic Swarm" is a well sounding and professionally produced release, and the powerful and detailed sounding production suits the material perfectly. Upon conclusion Cryptosis is definitely a welcome new addition to the world of sci-fi themed technical thrash metal, and fans of the genre are advised to give "Bionic Swarm" a listen. A 4 star (80%) rating is fully deserved.