Short Reviews [Earupt - 2023 - "Nihilosophy"]

After two self-released albums, ‘Belief/Relief’ (2013) and ‘Elements’ (2019), Belgian prog/groove metallers Earupt are now with Layered Reality Productions for their third. I have not heard the other albums but can believe the PR when it states they have gone further into these two genres to create something which is both deeper and more eclectic, as this is a fascinating piece of work. They are currently working as a trio with guitarists Tom Kielemoes and Walter Snoeck taking care of the music and arrangements, bringing in guest musicians, when necessary, with singer Hendrik Vanhoutte adding his vocal lines to craft the songs further. Although the basic ideas had started pre-pandemic, most of the songs had to be working on remotely, while the drums were provided by ex- bandmember and friend Thijs Lammertyn. It is when the band are at their most Meshuggah/Mastodon that this comes across with the most power and passion, as their interludes are not always as effective as they believe they could be. The title cut is a key example of just how these can deliver when they are focussed and on track, as it punches hard with keyboards a gentle backdrop as they punch through with dynamic tight and grooved guitars and Hendrik showing his range and depth of style. Nihilosophy is the scientific study or interpretation of nothing, and the artwork really brings this home. Here we see a small girl who is in a precarious position on the edge of a high building, reaching for beauty but missing, and potentially coming to harm so is this a representation of society and the excesses within? Something to consider while listening to the music where the band are doing their best to turn your brain to mush. It is incredibly intense, with huge note density, a real edge and refusal to conform which will probably find them being ignored by both progheads and metalheads which is a real shame as there is a great deal in here to discover and enjoy for those who like both genres.