In
2006 I came across a band that not only immediately grabbed my attention,
but quickly climbed to the top of my list of favorite bands. I can't even
begin to imagine how many times I've listened to their debut record,
Nocturne, released that same year. It had everything I could want in an
album: Technical riffs, shredding guitar, beautiful melodies and amazingly
composed classical passages. Unfortunately, I did not share the same passion
with their sophomore effort, Midheaven (2008), where they lost guitarist A.J.
Minette, who was one of the driving composers of the band. As much as I
listened to it I just couldn't grasp it the way I did Nocturne. So, when I
heard that Minette was returning for their third album, Digital Veil, I was
overjoyed. Digital Veil also brings a new vocalist, Travis Richter,
replacing Nathan Ells. Richter is a former member of From First To Last, and
fits The Human Abstract well, displaying a much more brutal vocal style than
former vocalist, Ells.
This album is nothing short of a masterpiece. It has all the shred, tech,
and beautiful melodies that prog fans love. The new album is a true step
forward for the band, being even more classically influenced than anything
previously released. They've also dropped some more of that metalcore sound
they once had. Whether you're holding up your lighter to the serene melodies
in Elegiac, or you're slamming into other fans during the title track,
Digital Veil, this album has something for everyone. The Human Abstract are
surely back with the potential that I once saw.
I would personally give this album a 9/10 for it's near perfection. My only
complaint is that it's a fairly short album. If you haven't heard this
album, or this band, do yourself a favor and pick up some of their material.
-Devin Garcia