May 31st, 2024
Bombyx Mori
'Chaotic Resonance'
When the pandemic shut down live music, Stefano, the creative force behind Bombyx Mori, saw an opportunity.
Named after the scientific term for the silkworm, Bombyx Mori is a metaphor for resilience and adaptation, first of, a great artistic and refreshing choice for a band name.
Stefano gathered musicians from around the globe, each bringing their unique styles to create "Chaotic Resonance" an album that really pushes to defy genre boundaries and delivers a powerful, eclectic modern metal experience.
So sit back, listen to the album and read this track by track review!
"Freeze the Frame" - this track kicks off in fantastic fashion with the perfect introduction type guitar / bass combo riff, it really sucks you into its high-octane world.
The palm mute sections coupled with groovy bassline and tight percussion set the stage for vocals that range from clean and melodic to brutal growls. It's a visceral gut-punch that sets the tone for the entire album. The production, crisp and clear, flawless for this type of genre.
"Leaves in the Wind" shifts gears with the doomy picking guitar work contrasts beautifully with a soaring brass section, adding an unexpected brilliance. The edgy, harsh vocals and melodic sections create a tension that mirrors the song's themes of societal disillusionment and the search for meaning.
The song arrangement really creates a cool unique atmospheric soundscape to the song that feels very refreshing. One of the highlights of the album for me.
Initially the next track feels very much like a djent mixed with nu-metal type song - and that comes from the transitions, alternating singing and growling, "Moral Control" is heavy yet catchy. The technical instrumentals and dynamic vocals showcase Bombyx Mori's ability to blend melody and destruction seamlessly.
"The Promise", one of the highlights of the album - this track explodes with a prominent funk bassline leading into a full-throttle metal assault, very much feels like a direct nod to Mudvaynes 'Dig'.
The surprise saxophone solo adds a jarring yet awesome element, making the song both bone-shattering and danceable. David Bowie would be proud. It's a wild ride that tackles inner demons and societal pressures head-on.
Starting with clean guitar and a jazzy feel, "Liquid Dreams" transitions into modern metal with screams and some crushing riffs especially around the 4 minute mark, love the outro to this. The contrast between melodic, romanticized guitar solos and aggressive death metal vocals creates a powerful dynamic.
Have a listen to the album below ->
"Follow the Line" comes out swinging with guitar-driven riffs and harsh vocals. The instrumentals fade in and out, creating effects that keep you on your toes. The seamless genre swaps and tempo changes make "Follow the Line" an exciting and unpredictable experience.
With descending instrumental progressions that create a psychedelic feel, "Downward Spiral" launches into thrashing heavy metal before throwing in a curveball with old-school rap. While the rap section does work, I'd nearly prefer an album full of those curveballs then to have it randomly placed within this album. A small nitpick if I had to pick one.
The theremin's eerie wail introduces "Through the Lens", setting a spooky atmosphere that quickly shifts into a full-fledged jazzy rock anthem. The blend of light and shadow, with technical bass runs and progressive guitar work, creates a thought-provoking exploration of existence and reality. To be or not to be?
Starting with climbing guitar riffs and brutal vocals, "Liars" blends lightning-paced leads with a distant washy sound. Some of the riffs remind me of the old 90s Doom soundtrack. It's those thrashing metal riffs and the fierce pace that keep you engaged throughout and at this stage of an album it's essential.
"Clockwork Man" for the most part is a very straightforward with a rock n roll type feel track until towards the end it throws you for a loop with its penny whistle and bagpipes, creating a unique folk metal vibe. The rhythm and soul of golden-era rock 'n' roll blend seamlessly with heavy metal, delivering a powerful message about societal control and the fight for freedom.
It is definitely worth the wait for the album's finale "Choose Your Weapon" as it starts with djent-styled bass and orchestral strings, leading into a 7.5-minute epic that ties all the themes together. Love the section around the 4 minute mark - almost Muse like. The gentle instrumental sections bridge intense metal compositions, creating a dynamic and satisfying conclusion. The excellent bass work in this track is to be commended.
"Chaotic Resonance" brings together a diverse group of musicians to create something truly unique. Stefano's vision of blending modern sounds with socially oriented lyrics is realised through tracks that are as varied as the musicians' backgrounds. The use of unconventional instruments, such as bagpipes, theremins, and saxophones, adds layers of richness to the music and I wish more bands/artists did this.
The album's themes of societal disillusionment, the search for identity, and the struggle for meaning is on point too.
So, if you're ready for a wild ride through diverse sounds and powerful messages, give "Chaotic Resonance" a listen.
Don't sleep on this one folks! Be prepared to have your expectations shattered — Stefano and his global crew of musicians have crafted a masterpiece that defies categorization and delivers an unforgettable experience.
