Between the Buried and Me have been at the helm of the ever-expanding progressive metal genre for quite some time now; their dazzling musicianship, creative songwriting, and ability to seamlessly transition from genre to genre from moment to moment have garnered them a devoted following. What really sets them apart, though, is their devotion to constantly pushing themselves into new territory, both conceptually and musically.
Their newest album, Automata I, is the first of a two-part album, with the second portion coming later this year. Between the Buried and Me are known for writing esoteric concept albums drenched in stratospheric dual lead guitar melodies, rippling bass, heaving, thrashing drums and operatic, sweeping keys, and Automata is no different. In an official press release, front man/keyboardist Tommy Rogers described the concept thusly:
“What if dreams could be broadcast for the purpose of entertainment? Could you consume the innermost thoughts of another person on screen? If you could, what does that say about an attention-starved audience? More importantly, what would become of the dreamer?”
The concepts on Between the Buried and Me’s records have always been far-reaching and mind-bending, especially as they deal with human consciousness. This intricacy is mirrored by the music, which as usual is highly calculated and precise: stuttering leads fall away into sludgy drones that build up to glittering, cinematic key and guitar motifs with shifting time signatures and melodic directions. However, Automata does seem to be a bit more spastic and less grandiose than earlier studio efforts. That being said, it is only the first part of what I’m sure will be an absolutely devastating double album.
As Between the Buried and Me albums go, Automata I is another notch in their belt. If fans were worried about them becoming a bit formulaic, this should put those fears to bed. At just 35 minutes, Automata I is a furious, crushing sprint of a record that leaves you tantalizingly close to what I expect will be a glorious marathon in Automata II.
