Carving out a distinct space in the modern instrumental scene, blending the aggressive intensity of metal with the rich harmonies and improvisational spirit of jazz fusion, multi-instrumentalists and brothers Nicolò and Federico Vese, – as the progressive metal duo Asymmetric Universe – are set to release their debut album, A Memory And What Came After, via InsideOutMusic, on the 29th August.
Work began on the record in late 2023, reflecting a refined vision and deeper maturity. “We have grown a lot since then, both as artists and as human beings,” said Federico Vese. “We always liked to blend genres… and we believe that now we have reached a clear vision of the balance of these genres.”
Earlier work often fused genres section-by-section, but now, with more confidence, the duo began each track with hybrid intentions, resulting in a more cohesive and expressive sound. “All the different arrangements and melodies are working together towards the same goal: convey the message and feeling that was at the base of each song,” Federico continued.
Their latest work features saxophone prominently, a decision inspired in part by a Bilmuri live show. “We always loved adding trumpets and saxophones… In this album we changed again the balance with these instruments, focusing on saxophone as we felt it was fitting perfectly with the vibe of the album,” said Federico.
Out now, is the single ‘Coquelicot’, featuring a guest appearance from Haken’s Richard Henshall. The band commented: “’Coquelicot’ is quite a simple and funky prog/fusion song, with quite a playful and happy feeling representing the peace of mind that we sometimes manage to achieve but that is disrupted by the things happening around and within us, represented by the heavy and complex breakdown and the dissonant solo of Richard Henshall.”
A Memory And What Came After was mixed by Sebastian Sendon, with Adam ‘Nolly’ Getgood also providing assistance with drum recording, which took place in the UK at Middle Farm Studios. It wiill be available as a Ltd CD digipak, Ltd. Blue-black marbled LP & as a digital album.
The full track listing is: ‘Coquelicot’ featuring Richard Henshall of Haken, ‘Fair Enough’, ‘Don’t Go Too Early’, ‘Reaction – Overthrow’ featuring Jared Yee of Sungazer, ‘Reaction – Thirst For Stars’, ‘Feather On A Glass’, ‘Dancing Through Contradictions’, ‘Opaco’ and ‘Those Who Stay’ – It can be ordered here.
