Moldovan progressive, modern metallers Infected Rain have dropped their fifth studio album Ecdysis via Napalm Records this month. Led as always by the charismatic Lena Scissorhands and named after the process of shedding old skin Edysis delivers Infected Rain’s signature sound which blends spacey, heavy, modern metal albeit this time with a new edge and killer instinct.
Having been constructed during the height of the Pandemic this record acts as a milestone that marks a redefining of the band’s sound as they emerge with new energy. The record is packed with Lena’s trademark wide vocal range, catchy riffs, flowing drum rhythms and chunky bass tones intersected with electronic, almost nu-metal samples that those familiar with the band would expect.
Each track on Ecdysis offers something different to the last, I realise I have said this about a number of records I’ve reviewed recently, but for me, it’s a staple of a good album when tracks can be enjoyed standalone as well as part of the overall package. Here, each individual song stands up on its own which is great but also makes the whole album that much more enjoyable when heard in conjunction with their counterparts, while different, they all perfectly sync up together.
Again, albums that work like this make it difficult to pick standouts but for me, I have to give nods to ‘Fighter’ which quickly found itself on repeat, with its brutal sonic assault and haunting melodies. ‘The Realm of Chaos’ is also worthy of repeat plays, featuring Heidi Shepherd (Butcher Babies) who’s vocals intertwine with Lena’s beautifully. ‘Nine Ten’ peaks one’s interest, a track late on the record that strips away the heavy elements and displays Lena’s soft and rough vocals in an interesting duality set to a spacey, lo-fi electronic backing track. ‘Postmortem Pt.1’ and its follow up ‘Postmodern Pt.2’ which open and close the album respectively work well as opposite numbers bringing a feeling of closure to each full playthrough. Also ‘Showers’ dares you to not nod along and crank the volume up.
Overall, Ecdysis is an album of rebirth, reemergence and redefinition. It’s an exciting record for the band and they continue to explore their own musical ranges and creativity. The new year is off to a strong start with metal and this album is one to be seriously considered when looking for fresh material to listen to.
